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NCT07776444NARecruitingAccepts Healthy Volunteers

Cerebrovascular Reactivity Measurements With High-Density Diffuse Optical Tomography

Washington University School of Medicine

Start Date

10/1/2025

Completion Date

9/30/2032

Summary

The purpose of the study protocol is to identify imaging biomarkers for brain tissue under high metabolic stress at risk for permanent injury. We will measure oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) in participants with and without perturbations in cerebral oxygen delivery over time to determine each parameter's role in clinical and radiologic neurologic outcomes. Measuring OEF can be done with specialized MRI sequences. Measuring CVR requires a vasoactive response, such as carbon dioxide. In order to deliver carbon dioxide evenly and as safely as possible, we will use RespirACT, an MRI-compatible device, to prevent over-breathing carbon dioxide and allow rapid steady-state physiology to minimize total scan time. We will also use a high density diffuse optical tomography (HD-DOT) cap to assess the measurement of OEF and CVR. This study will investigate both regional OEF and CVR simultaneously to understand each marker's unique developmental trajectory and contribution to stroke risk in children. This work will expand insights into mechanisms of stroke in children and assess the feasibility of the HD-DOT cap for obtaining these insights by comparing a cohort of optical CVR and a cohort of MRI CVR. In addition to the MRI and/or HD-DOT cap with RespirAct, participants may also have their vitals measured, complete cognitive testing, and complete a blood draw with a study visit. Participants may be followed for up to three years and may complete both an MRI scan and an HD-DOT scan within 1 week-12 months of each other. Participants may be invited back to repeat MRI and/or HD-DOT scans 1-2 times over the next three years.

Detailed Description

The purpose of the study protocol is to identify imaging biomarkers for brain tissue under high metabolic stress at risk for permanent injury. We will measure OEF and CVR in participants with and without perturbations in cerebral oxygen delivery over time to determine each parameter's role in clinical and radiologic neurologic outcomes. Measuring OEF can be done with specialized MRI sequences. Measuring CVR requires a vasoactive response, such as carbon dioxide. In order to deliver carbon dioxide evenly and as safely as possible, we will use RespirACT, an MRI-compatible device, to prevent over-breathing carbon dioxide and allow rapid steady-state physiology to minimize total scan time. We will also use an HD-DOT cap to assess the measurement of OEF and CVR.

Eligibility Criteria

Age Range: 6 years to 70 years

Inclusion Criteria: * 6-70 Years Old * Able to participate in MRI scan without sedation * May or may not have HbSS or beta thalassemia null genotypes of sickle cell anemia Exclusion Criteria: * Significant craniofacial malformation or technical contraindications to DOT monitoring (for HDDOT imaging) * Metal in/on the body that is contraindicated for MRI safety (for MRI imaging)

Interventions

OTHER

Carbon Dioxide

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Conditions

Sickle Cell DiseaseCerebral Stroke

Locations

Washington University in St. Louis

St Louis, Missouri 63110

United States