Hyperpolarized Xenon imaging in patients with cystic fibrosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Hyperpolarised 129Xe MRI for non-invasive assessment of ventilation, perfusion and the alveolar membrane – a physiological study in healthy volunteers & cystic fibrosis patients
IRAS ID
212741
Contact name
Nicholas Screaton
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Papworth NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Lung diseases often show a gradual onset of irreversible lung damage which can lead to severe breathing problems. Imaging is central to guiding treatment; however, current techniques are either inaccurate or involve exposure to radiation. Recent developments in lung magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide promise as a radiation-free alternative. However, conventional MRI cannot directly show changes in distribution of inhaled air or absorption of gas which are important signs of early lung disease. To accomplish this sort of imaging, a new MRI technique has recently been developed using the inhaled gas contrast agent Xenon, with magnetic properties modified using a technique called hyperpolarization. Our study at Papworth Hospital in Cambridge aims to determine how hyperpolarized Xenon MRI can help determine air flow distribution and gas uptake in the lungs. We will also be able to compare the information from patients with that from healthy volunteers. This should give insight into the processes involved in chronic lung diseases and help evaluate disease extent in patients. Volunteers and patients will be given a single MRI examination at Papworth which will involve one or more breath-hold inhalations of hyperpolarized Xenon gas.
REC name
East of England - Cambridge South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0450
Date of REC Opinion
28 Nov 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion