Enrolling by invitationOBSERVATIONAL

Metabolic Imaging of Neurological Disease

Researchers at the University of Oxford are using a special new scanning technique called 'hyperpolarised magnetic resonance imaging' to investigate how the brain uses sugar in people with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or after having a stroke. The study aims to understand the changes that happen in the brain with these conditions. They will compare brain scans of people with MS, a related condition called Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS), or those who have had a stroke, with scans from healthy volunteers. Each participant will have up to four scans over three years.

At a glance

Status

Enrolling by invitation

Sponsor

University of Oxford

Enrolment target

250

Start

01 Jul 2021

Estimated completion

01 Jun 2027

Multiple Sclerosis

What is this study about?

This research is looking into how the brain's energy use, specifically how it processes sugar, changes in people with certain health conditions. When someone has Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or has experienced a stroke, the brain can work differently. For example, MS is a long-term condition that affects how the brain and body communicate, and we know this can lead to changes in how the brain uses energy. Similarly, after a stroke, there can be changes in brain chemistry and inflammation.

To see these changes, the study uses a powerful and new type of scan called 'hyperpolarised magnetic resonance imaging.' This advanced technology helps researchers see details that aren't usually visible with standard scans. By carefully looking at how the brain uses sugar, the scientists hope to learn more about these conditions. They want to compare what they find in people with MS, those with a related condition called Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS), or people who have had a stroke, to what they see in healthy volunteers.

Understanding these brain changes could be very important. It might help us to better understand these conditions in the future, and potentially lead to new ways to help people living with them. The study is being carried out by experts at the University of Oxford.

Key takeaways

This study uses advanced brain scanning to understand how the brain's energy (sugar) use changes in MS and after a stroke.
It aims to compare people with MS or stroke to healthy volunteers.
Participation involves up to four special brain scans over three years at the University of Oxford.
The findings could help improve our future understanding of these conditions.
Anyone aged up to 99 with a diagnosis of MS or stroke may be eligible.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you would need to have received a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or have had a stroke. If you fulfil either of these criteria, you might be suitable to take part.

The researchers are looking for a wide range of adults, from any age up to 99 years old. They also welcome both men and women to participate in the study.

There are no specific reasons given why you might not be able to join this study, so if you meet the main criteria of having MS or having had a stroke, you should discuss your suitability with the research team.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
I have experienced a stroke or TIA (mini-stroke).
I am aged 18 to 99 years old.
I am comfortable travelling to the University of Oxford for scan appointments.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would visit the University of Oxford. Over a period of up to three years, you would have up to four scanning appointments. Each appointment would involve undergoing a special type of brain scan called 'hyperpolarised magnetic resonance imaging.' The study information does not mention any medication, additional tests, or follow-up phone calls after the scans become available. The total duration of your active involvement in the study would depend on how many scanning sessions you have, up to a maximum of three years.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may not directly benefit you, but the information gained could help others in the future by improving our understanding of Multiple Sclerosis and stroke. As with any medical procedure, there can be minor risks associated with MRI scans, such as discomfort in the scanner or reactions to some contrast agents if used (though none are specified here). The research team will explain all potential risks. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University of Oxford
Verified postcode
Oxford, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

MS is a long-term condition that can affect your brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off, which can damage brain cells. This study also includes 'transient ischemic attacks' (TIAs), which are sometimes called 'mini-strokes'.

What is 'hyperpolarised magnetic resonance imaging'?

It's a new, more advanced type of MRI scan that allows doctors to see how the brain uses energy, like sugar, in much more detail than a standard MRI.

Will I get results from my scan?

The study aims to gather overall information about MS and stroke. Individual results are usually not given, but you can always ask the research team for more details about this before you decide to take part.

Where will the study take place?

The study will be carried out at the University of Oxford.

How to find out more

Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.