Using advanced MRI to track changes in the brain and spine for ALS diagnosis
Official title: Multimodal longitudinal imaging of brain and cervical cord as an ALS disease biomarker using microstructure statistics and morphometry
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10931542 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $399,994 |
| NIH project number | 5U01FD008120-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931542 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with ALS who are willing to undergo MRI scans as part of the study.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological disorders other than ALS may not benefit directly from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pisharady, Pramod Kumar — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Pisharady, Pramod Kumar
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.