Filter exchange imaging as a novel MRI biomarker - getting ready for clinical

Purpose and goal

The majority of MRI biomarkers suffer from low diagnostic specificity. Filter EXchange Imaging (FEXI) and MIcroscopic Anisotropy Imaging (MIAI) are novel non-invasive MRI methods capable of capturing unique tissue information in vivo. This project aims at scrutinizing the full potential of FEXI and MIAI, extending the theoretical frameworks and achieving an optimal experimental protocol for a clinical study of MS patients. Furthermore, this project intends to build a research platform for the development and testing of the next generation of diffusion MRI methods.

Expected results and effects

Significant theoretical insights and methodological advancements were achieved. We now understand the effects of imaging gradients and tissue anisotropy in FEXI. The study also resulted in an extended MIAI protocol, which was applied to study maturation in fixed monkey brain. FEXI and MIAI are ready for a clinical study of MS, which has started. The project allowed realizing a strong synergy between DIG, CRD and an extended group of collaborators.

Planned approach and implementation

This project facilitated strong collaborations between CRD, DIG, Lund University and other sites, forming a platform for development of new methods. The DIGs facilities provided an efficient and fruitful environment to refine and optimize novel methods through iteration between theory and preclinical and clinical experiments. The collaboration allowed addressing relevant scientific questions, such as understanding the microstructure of the maturating brain, or clinical investigations of the MS.