Using MRI to measure brain oxygen levels as an early sign of small vessel disease in the brain
Official title: MR measured regional hypoxia as an early biomarker in cerebral small vessel disease
Funded at Washington University · NIH-9960958 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how measuring oxygen levels in the brain with MRI can help spot early signs of small vessel disease, which is linked to memory problems and dementia, especially Alzheimer's, so if you're at risk due to age or high blood pressure, you might be able to participate in MRI scans to learn more about your brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2020 |
| Award (this year) | $3,443,971 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS116565-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-9960958 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older, particularly those with risk factors for vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no vascular risk factors or those who are not experiencing cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how measuring oxygen levels in the brain using MRI can help identify early signs of cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), which is linked to cognitive decline and dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to establish a connection between common vascular risk factors, such as age and hypertension, and the progression of CSVD. By focusing on the oxygen extraction fraction (MR-OEF), the research seeks to provide insights into the mechanisms that lead to brain injury and cognitive impairment. Patients may undergo MRI scans to assess their brain's oxygen levels, which could help in understanding their risk for developing dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better management of dementia-related conditions, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using MRI techniques to study brain health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into dementia-related conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: An, Hongyu — Washington University
- Study coordinator: An, Hongyu
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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.