7T MRI Pilot to Find Imaging Biomarkers in ALS and related motor neuron diseases
Official title: 7T Imaging Pilot-study in Patients With Motor Neuron Disease to Find Non-Invasive Disease Imaging Biomarkers
Run by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde · NCT07818772 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A 7T MRI study is being done to see if ultra-high-field brain scans can reveal non-invasive biomarkers in adults with motor neuron disease, including ALS.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Glasgow) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 13, 2026 |
| Main results expected | November 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | November 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 14, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07818772 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults (≥18) with definite or probable motor neuron disease who can consent and tolerate a 7T MRI, without contraindications.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals not showing relevant biomarkers on 7T imaging or unable to derive diagnostic information from imaging may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational pilot study uses a 7-tesla MRI scanner to obtain high-detail brain images from adults with definite or probable motor neuron disease. The goal is to develop imaging biomarkers that could help with faster diagnosis and better prognostic information. The study assesses feasibility and potential diagnostic value of 7T MRI findings in MND subtypes, with safety and tolerability as part of the evaluation. Recruitment targets adults able to consent who meet El Escorial criteria and do not have MRI contraindications. No therapeutic intervention is administered; imaging data collection is the primary activity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants and future patients could benefit from earlier, more accurate diagnosis and better-informed treatment decisions guided by imaging biomarkers.
How similar studies have gone: Prior imaging biomarker work in MND shows promise, but 7T MRI in this context remains exploratory and not yet established as standard.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Male or non-pregnant female patients, ≥18 years of age * Able to give informed consent * Patients diagnosed as definite or probable motor neuron disease (El Escorial Criteria) Exclusion Criteria: * Contraindications to 7T MRI; * active implants, * tattoos in head and neck area * post-surgical brain implants and metal ware * Pregnancy * Unable to comfortably or safely lie flat in an MRI scanner * Respiratory failure * Known major other confounding neurological disease or previous brain surgery * Significant cognitive impairment, including loss of capacity secondary to fronto-temporal dementia * Unable to speak or understand any English (not complying with local 7T MRI safety SOPs) * Unlikely to be able to lie still for the duration of the scan.
Where it's running
-
ICE Building
Glasgow, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: George H Gorrie, MA. MB.ChB. Ph.D FRCP (Ed)
- Email: george.gorrie2@nhs.scot
- Phone: 01412327542
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.