Testing a new brain PET insert for better imaging with MRI

Clinical Translation of a Novel Brain PET Insert for Simultaneous PET/MR

Not applicable Interventional Stanford University · NCT04383808

This study is testing a new brain imaging tool that combines PET and MRI scans to see if it can improve how we look at brain diseases in people.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages21 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStanford University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Palo Alto, California)
Trial IDNCT04383808 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to evaluate the feasibility of a dedicated PET insert designed for simultaneous PET/MR imaging of the human brain. The study will involve 40 participants, with half receiving an FDA-approved PET tracer and the other half pre-injected with a radiopharmaceutical for comparison. The performance of the new PET insert will be assessed against a commercial whole-body PET/MRI system using the same radiopharmaceutical. The goal is to enhance imaging capabilities for brain diseases.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 21 and older who are willing to undergo PET tracer injections.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of cancer, pregnancy, or those with metallic implants may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to improved diagnostic imaging for brain diseases, allowing for better patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While similar imaging approaches have been explored, this specific brain-dedicated PET insert is a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Whole body radiation dose within the last year of less than 5000 mrem
2. Subjects intended for injected tracer studies (not associated with another study) must be willing/able to undergo injection of 6-12 mCi of either FDG or Neuraceq radiotracer. Both tracers are FDA approved
3. Subjects will be at least 21 years of age
4. Subject provides written informed consent
5. Subject is deemed healthy by the PI by via self-reported questionnaire

Exclusion Criteria:

1. For patients who will be receiving a tracer injection, no known allergy to the imaging agents
2. Participant has a history of or current diagnosis of cancer
3. Participant is pregnant or nursing
4. Metallic implants (contraindicated for MRI)

Where this trial is running

Palo Alto, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Brain Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.