Multi-Parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in Kidney and Cardiovascular Disease
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful modality. Functional MRI includes many techniques that measure diverse physiological markers in organs.
MRI uniquely acquires detailed information without imposing ionizing radiation, and many applications don't require contrast agents. Although renal functional MRI tools are still largely experimental, understanding their inherent power may facilitate adaptation for clinical practice.
Our lab has several ongoing projects that aim to assess renal and cardiac hemodynamics and functions. These projects use high-field MRI in small animal models and clinical 3T MRI in large animal models and human research participants.
MRI methods used in this research project include:
- Dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging to assess renal perfusion and glomerular filtration rate.
- Arterial spin labeling.
- Diffusion-weighted imaging.
- Blood oxygen level-dependent imaging (BOLD-MRI).
- Myocardial tagging.
In addition, we have a major research focus on assessing renal fibrosis for which we have used:
- Magnetization transfer imaging.
- Diffusion-weighted imaging.
- MR elastography.