Fasciculation detection using motor unit MRI (MUMRI).
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Observational multi-centre study comparing fasciculation frequency detected using motor unit MRI (MUMRI) across scanner make and magnet strength.
IRAS ID
331986
Contact name
Roger Whittaker
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
The aim of this study is to compare the frequency and distribution of fasciculation (spontaneous muscle contractions) detected using different makes of MRI scanner and different magnet strengths. We recently developed and tested a novel form of MRI scanning which we call motor unit MRI, or MUMRI. MUMRI is sensitive to fasciculation and is therefore a potential non-invasive diagnostic test for patients with excessive fasciculation. We have implemented this on our local NHS scanners as part of a previous research project. This research used a Siemens MRI scanner with a 3 tesla (3T) magnet, and was able to detect high rates of fasciculation in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive motor disorder in which fasciculation is a key feature. We now wish to determine whether different makes of scanner and different magnet strengths give comparable results.
Participants will be recruited and scanned in their local centres. We will include at least 4 centres in England and 2 in Scotland, which between them include MRI scanners from the 3 largest vendors (Siemens, Philips and GE) as well as the 2 most common magnet strengths (3T and 1.5T). Participants will undergo MUMRI scanning in 4 body regions; head and neck, upper limbs, trunk, and legs on a single day. This is an observational study in which we will compare the frequency and distribution of fasciculation detected using each different make of scanner and magnet strength. This information will be used to determine whether MUMRI can potentially be applied on MRI scanners across the NHS and beyond.REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/PR/0706
Date of REC Opinion
31 Jul 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion