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Observational Study on Brain Metabolism Imaging

This observational study aims to improve how we image important processes in the human brain. Researchers are testing two special substances, hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate and [2-13C]pyruvate, to see how well they can show the brain's energy use (oxidative metabolism) and how brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) are made. The main goal is to develop clear images using these substances. You might be able to join if you are a healthy adult between 18 and 60 years old with no brain problems and can understand and sign a consent form. The study plans to enroll 28 participants, but its current status is unclear.

Study design
This is an observational study involving 28 healthy participants. It is not specified if there are different phases.
What's involved
Each participant will be imaged twice using the same substance, with less than 45 minutes between injections. Some participants will also be imaged with both substances for comparison.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Measurements are made during the study scan. No further follow-up is specified.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT03849963

Imaging Oxidative Metabolism and Neurotransmitter Synthesis in the Human Brain

Recruiting
Not specifiedAges 18–60Observational
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
~28 participants
Updated 2026-03-12 on ClinicalTrials.gov

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 1 listed site is recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
Development of 13C ratio maps in the brain of healthy participants
Measured over Measurements made during study scan

Conditions

Brain Metabolism

Explore related trials

Healthy

Where it's being run

1 sites across 1 states
Texas1

Who to contact

Jeannie D Baxter, RN
[email protected]
214-645-2726
Email the study team

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Do you actually qualify for this trial?

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Eligibility criteria

Inclusion

18 through 60 years of age.
Healthy, with no neurological abnormalities.
Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent.
All races and ethnicities will be included; subjects must be able to read and speak the English language.

Exclusion

Metallic foreign bodies on the scalp or cranium which may interfere with MRI acquisitions
Major debilitating neurological disease including, but not limited to, stroke, CVA, dementia and tumor that would limit compliance with study requirements
Under influence of illicit drugs which are known to alter brain physiology/metabolism including, but not limited to cocaine, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and marijuana at the time of MRI/MRSI scanning.
Under influence of antiepileptic drugs at the time of MRI/MRSI scanning.
Any contraindication per MRI Screening Form including
Implants contraindicated at 3T, pacemakers
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
Claustrophobia
Medically unstable including
Heart failure
Severe left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction
Unstable angina
Pregnancy
Lactating

What this trial measures

  • Development of 13C ratio maps in the brain of healthy participantsMeasurements made during study scan

    Product ratios (Bicarbonate/Lactate, Glutamate/Lactate) will be acquired from the hyperpolarized 13C imaging