Using Xenon-129 MRI to Improve Imaging Techniques in Healthy Volunteers

Xenon-129 Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Healthy Subjects: Hardware and Software Development and Reproducibility

Not applicable Interventional Western University, Canada · NCT02484885

This study is testing a new type of MRI using a special gas to see if it can improve lung imaging in healthy volunteers aged 18 to 85.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorWestern University, Canada Academic / other
Locations1 site (London, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT02484885 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study involves healthy volunteers aged 18-85 who will undergo hyperpolarized 129-Xe MRI and pulmonary function testing. The aim is to develop and assess new imaging tools that measure signal quality and reproducibility in MRI techniques. Participants will complete a series of tests including medical history, vital signs, and various pulmonary function assessments, followed by MRI scans using specialized equipment. The study will take place at the Robarts Research Institute and will include safety measures such as supplemental oxygen.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18-85 with a BMI between 18 and 40 who can perform a breath hold for up to 16 seconds.

Not a fit: Patients with significant health issues, severe claustrophobia, or those unable to perform required tests will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance MRI imaging techniques, leading to better diagnostic tools for pulmonary conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of hyperpolarized gases in MRI is a developing field, similar studies have shown promise in improving imaging techniques.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* able to perform a breath hold for up to 16 sec
* BMI between 18 and 40
* stable health on the basis of medical history
* smoking history \< 1 pack/year

Exclusion Criteria:

Patient is, in the opinion of the investigator, mentally or legally incapacitated, preventing informed consent from being obtained, or cannot read or understand the written material.

* Subject has a daytime room air oxygen saturation \<90% while lying supine.
* Patient is unable to perform spirometry or plethysmography maneuvers
* Patient is pregnant
* In the investigator's opinion, subject suffers from any physical, psychological or other condition(s) that might prevent performance of the MRI, such as severe claustrophobia.
* Subject has an implanted mechanically, electrically or magnetically activated device or any metal in their body which cannot be removed, including but not limited to pacemakers, neurostimulators, biostimulators, implanted insulin pumps, aneurysm clips, bioprosthesis, artificial limb, metallic fragment or foreign body, shunt, surgical staples (including clips or metallic sutures and/or ear implants.)

Where this trial is running

London, Ontario

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 Healthy VolunteersMagnetic Resonance ImagingPulmonary Function
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.