Using advanced MRI to track changes in the brain and spine for ALS diagnosis

Multimodal longitudinal imaging of brain and cervical cord as an ALS disease biomarker using microstructure statistics and morphometry

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10931542

This study is looking at how new MRI techniques can help spot changes in the brains and necks of people with ALS, so we can better understand how the disease progresses and find ways to improve diagnosis.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931542 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques can be used to detect changes in the brain and cervical spinal cord of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). By analyzing various MRI metrics over short periods, the study aims to identify potential biomarkers that can indicate disease progression. The approach combines multiple imaging methods to enhance sensitivity and accuracy in diagnosing ALS. Participants will undergo MRI scans to help establish the effectiveness of these imaging techniques in clinical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ALS who are willing to undergo MRI scans as part of the study.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders other than ALS may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis of ALS, improving patient management and treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using MRI metrics to detect changes in neurological conditions, suggesting that this multimodal approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.