Thermoacoustic Method for Estimating Liver Fat Fraction
Recruiting · Ann Arbor, Michigan
Always free
Study care at no cost to you
For your time and travel
Many studies pay you back
Most need no insurance or papers
Legal status usually isn't required; we'll tell you each study's requirements
Interpreters available
Ask for your language
Your choice
Voluntary — you can stop anytime
What is this study?
The goal of this study is to use our Thermoacoustic Enhanced Ultrasound device to measure the fat levels in your liver and compare it to the the gold standard MRI PDFF measurements. Participants will have a scan with our device, then they will go have an abdominal MRI completed.
It is , overseen by an independent and licensed medical staff.
Read the full clinical description
The goal of this study is to use our Thermoacoustic Enhanced Ultrasound device to measure the fat levels in your liver and compare it to the the gold standard MRI PDFF measurements. Participants will have a scan with our device, then they will go have an abdominal MRI completed. The goal is to create a more accessible device to measure liver fat as it is an indicator for overall health and metabolic diseases.
Who this study is looking for
In plain language, from the study's own rules. The study team confirms the full details with you — this isn't a final yes or no.
✅ You may be able to join if…
- •You are 18 years or older.
- •You can understand, read, and sign informed consent in English.
- •You can safely have both an ultrasound and an MRI.
- •You can lie flat or on your side for about 20 minutes and pause breathing for up to 10 seconds.
🚫 You may not be able to join if…
- •You have metal or electronic implants that are a problem for MRI (for example: pacemakers, metal clips, certain implants).
- •You are known to be pregnant at consent or become pregnant during the study (based on the start date of your last menstrual period).
- •You have a liver disease other than MASLD/MASH/fibrosis (including cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, or ascites).
- •You have broken or injured skin on the right upper belly area where the scan is done.
- •Your body size or scan area makes liver measurement with ultrasound not possible (including BMI over 50 kg/m2, very little subcutaneous fat at the measurement spot, missing a liver lobe, peri-hepatic fat at the measurement spot, or a focal liver lesion/anatomy that blocks ultrasound viewing).
Are you a good fit?
Simplified highlights. The study team always confirms the full details with you.
- ✓Adults roughly 18–any age
- !Some conditions may not be a fit: Obesity / overweight, Fatty liver disease (NASH/MASH)
- !Not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding
What to expect, step by step
- 1
Usually a few weeks
The study team checks whether the study is a good fit for you, with a visit and sometimes lab tests. You can ask any questions before deciding.
- 2
Treatment
If you join and choose to continue, you receive the study treatment and are watched closely by medical staff.
- 3
Follow-up
After treatment, the team checks on your health and confirms the visit schedule with you. You can leave the study at any point.
Has this treatment been tested before?
The study team can share what safety testing has been done so far.
What you need to know before you apply
What is this study testing?+
The goal of this study is to use our Thermoacoustic Enhanced Ultrasound device to measure the fat levels in your liver and compare it to the the gold standard MRI PDFF measurements. Participants will have a scan with our device, then they will go have an abdominal MRI completed.
Is it safe? Who makes sure of that?+
This is a research study. Every study is reviewed and monitored by an independent ethics board (called an IRB) whose job is to protect participants, and care is overseen by licensed medical staff. You'll be told the known risks before you agree to anything, and you can stop at any time.
Will I get a placebo instead of the real treatment?+
Some studies compare a treatment against a placebo (an inactive version), and some don't. If this one does, the study team will explain your chances of receiving the active treatment before you decide. Nothing is hidden from you.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications?+
It depends on the study. Some let you stay on your current medications and some ask you to adjust them. Never stop a medication on your own — the study team will review everything with you first.
Does it cost anything? Will I be paid?+
Study-related care is provided at no cost to you. Some studies also pay for your time; the coordinator can tell you if this one does. You should never be asked to pay to take part.
Do I need insurance? Will anyone ask about my immigration status?+
No. You do not need health insurance to take part in a research study, and you will not be asked about your immigration status to join. Taking part is about whether you're a medical fit for the study.
What if English isn't my first language?+
You have the right to understand everything before you agree. Study sites can often provide materials or an interpreter in your language — you can ask the coordinator for one.
Is my information private?+
Yes. Your health information is only shared with the study sites you choose to be contacted by, and only to help match and enroll you. It is never sold, and you can ask us to delete it at any time.
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT07321925 · Locations: Michigan