Using hyperpolarized xenon gas for lung imaging in children and adults

Use of Hyperpolarized 129 Xe MR Lung Imaging in Children and Adults

Phase1; Phase2 Interventional Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati · NCT02272049

This study is testing if breathing in a special gas during MRI scans can help doctors see how well the lungs are working in both healthy people and those with breathing problems.

Quick facts

PhasePhase1; Phase2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages6 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChildren's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati Academic / other
Locations1 site (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT02272049 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of hyperpolarized 129Xe gas MRI for assessing lung function in both healthy individuals and those with respiratory disorders. Participants will inhale hyperpolarized xenon gas during MRI scans, which will be conducted in a single session at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. The study aims to gather data on lung function through a series of imaging sessions, including both hyperpolarized xenon and conventional proton MRI. Follow-up assessments will occur one day and 30 days post-imaging to monitor any changes or effects.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include children and adults aged 6 and older who can hold their breath for up to 16 seconds.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of heart defects, uncontrolled asthma, or those who are claustrophobic may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a non-invasive method for assessing lung function in patients with respiratory disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of hyperpolarized xenon gas for lung imaging is a novel approach, similar imaging techniques have shown promise in other studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Ages 6 and up
* Participant must be able to hold breath for up to 16 seconds

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of heart defect
* Pregnancy or positive pregnancy test
* History of uncontrolled asthma defined for this study as requiring use of rescue inhaler ≥ 2 times in past month
* Symptoms of respiratory infection (loose or productive cough or wheeze), chest tightness, or sinus infection within past week
* Baseline oximetry at MRI visit of less than 95% on room air or less than 95% on a previously prescribed dosage of oxygen delivered by nasal cannula
* Participant is claustrophobic and unable to tolerate the imaging.
* Standard MRI exclusions (metal, implants)

Where this trial is running

Cincinnati, Ohio

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 Respiratory DisordersRespiratory
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.