The goal of this research is to optimize the MRI system to obtain ideal lung images using Hyperpolarized (HP) Noble and Inert Fluorinated Gases as contrast agents. Lung coils tuned to the frequencies of these gases will be used. This study will take place at TBRHSC in the Cardiorespiratory Department and in the Research MRI facility.
MR images of the lung obtained using HP 3He, HP 129Xe, and inert fluorinated gases essentially show the distribution of the inhaled gas inside the lungs. Measurements can be performed on these images to provide additional information that can be related to pulmonary function. Participation will involve at least two study visits. During the first visit, participants will provide written, informed consent, and undergo eligibility screening. Study drug administration, use of the investigational devices, and MR imaging for this study will be performed at the 3T Research MRI at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) will be performed at TBRHSC by a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) and an MR Tech will be present for the duration of participant scans. Participants will be placed in the MRI with the appropriate chest coil wrapped around them like a vest. Several inhalation procedures will be carried out during scanning. Participants safety will be closely monitored throughout the entire study.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
DIAGNOSTIC
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
10
3He will be hyperpolarized using a custom-built polarizer to enhance its MRI signal. Hyperpolarization does not change the chemical or physical properties of helium gas.
129Xe will be hyperpolarized using a Xemed polarizer to enhance its MRI signal. Hyperpolarization does not change the chemical or physical properties of xenon gas.
Perfluoropropane (PFP) will be premixed and delivered to the participants with no further processing.
Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) will be premixed and delivered to the participant with no further processing.
The investigational 129Xe small and large quadrature lung coils are sensitive to 129Xe resonant frequencies and therefore will be paired with the investigational drug 129Xe. The size of the coil used will depend on the participants' body size.
The investigational 3He quadrature lung coil is sensitive to 3He resonant frequencies and therefore will be paired with the investigational drug 3He.
The investigational PFP and SF6 quadrature lung coil is sensitive to inert fluorinated gas resonant frequencies and therefore will be paired with both PFP and SF6.
Thunder Bay Regional RI
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
Signal to Noise Ratio
The primary objective of this study is to determine an optimized set of scan parameters that will produce clear, anatomically and clinically relevant images of the lungs for healthy participants and various types of lung disorder participants, and using one or more gas type (3He, 129Xe, PFP, SF6).
Time frame: 2 years
Correlation with PFTs
The secondary objective of this study is to correlate the results with PFTs, including spirometry and plethysmography.
Time frame: 2 years
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