Hyperpolarized Carbon Metabolic Imaging in Multiple Sclerosis
Recruiting · San Francisco, California
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 main purpose of this study is to assess whether hyperpolarized carbon imaging in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) patients can be used to predict response to anti-CD20 disease modifying therapy. Study procedures will include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessments with a hyperpolarized pyruvate sequence, clinical assessment as well as blood markers of disease progression.
It is , overseen by an independent and licensed medical staff.
Read the full clinical description
The main purpose of this study is to assess whether hyperpolarized carbon imaging in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) patients can be used to predict response to anti-CD20 disease modifying therapy. Study procedures will include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessments with a hyperpolarized pyruvate sequence, clinical assessment as well as blood markers of disease progression. This method of imaging utilizes the Warburg effect, where innate immune cells utilize a metabolic shift to glycolysis instead of oxidative phosphorylation. In pre-clinical data, increased hyperpolarized lactate production has been found to be associated with increased microglial/macrophage infiltration in the brain. Although hyperpolarized carbon imaging in humans has been established and used in the field of oncology, this will be one of the first applications of hyperpolarized carbon the study of neuroinflammation in humans. We predict that hyperpolarized carbon imaging may have the potential to monitor and evaluate neuroinflammation in MS, and in particular the innate immune activation state that plays a role in MS progression. This imaging method may provide non-invasive monitoring of disease progression and therapy response for MS patients.
Are you a good fit?
Simplified highlights. The study team always confirms the full details with you.
- ✓Adults roughly 18–any age
- ✓Have Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- !Some conditions may not be a fit: Heart / cardiovascular disease, High blood pressure
- !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?
Yes. This treatment has already been through earlier human studies for safety before reaching this stage.
What you need to know before you apply
What is this study testing?+
The main purpose of this study is to assess whether hyperpolarized carbon imaging in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) patients can be used to predict response to anti-CD20 disease modifying therapy. Study procedures will include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessments with a hyperpolarized pyruvate sequence, clinical assessment as well as blood markers of disease progression.
Is it safe? Who makes sure of that?+
This is a mid-stage study (Phase 2), looking at safety and whether the treatment works. 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?+
The study treatment and study-related visits are 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.
Some requirements (like specific lab values or timing) are confirmed directly by the study team, not by us.
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT07510607 · Locations: California