Real-time feedback MRI for improved reproducibility in imaging biomarkers

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The overall goal of this project is to incorporate advanced real-time feedback techniques into MRI protocols in order to increase reproducibility of MR-derived parameters and improve the accuracy and efficiency of a variety of clinical procedures at the University of Pennsylvania. While this proposal focuses on a few specific applications in the areas of structural micro-MRI of trabecular bone, real-time cardiac imaging, and functional neuroimaging, the candidate anticipates that the real-time feedback programming framework developed during the project will have a significant impact on other NIH funded research projects at Penn and elsewhere. The candidate, a mathematician with a background in computer science, has developed a graphical pulse sequence programming environment which has been fully interfaced to the Siemens whole-body scanners. This software, which has been used by students and researchers to develop dozens of research pulse sequences, will be the starting point for the proposed real-time feedback programming framework. Through collaborations with clinical and biomedical researchers at Penn, the candidate expects this technology to fill gaps in research techniques and ultimately have a significant positive impact on health care. Medical imaging is becoming increasingly important for the development and validation of new drugs, medical devices and procedures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is particularly suitable for these purposes because it is non-invasive and sensitive to a wide range of physiological processes. However, the modality also has a number of inherent challenges that often reduce the accuracy or reproduciblity of quantitative MRI-derived parameters (imaging biomarkers). Subject motion during a scan, inconsistent patient positioning, and other MRI-related problems can hinder the ability to detect small changes in biomarkers in response to treatment or disease progression. Real-time feedback techniques (including prospective motion compensation and automatic section prescription) can significantly improve the accuracy and precision of such measurements. However, due to the technical difficulty of implementing these advanced scanning techniques, real-time feedback capabilities are not available for many of the clinical procedures that could most benefit.