Not yet recruitingObservational

Multi-centre MRI study of the heart microstructure in healthy volunteers

This study uses a special type of MRI scan, called cardiac diffusion tensor imaging (cDTI), to look very closely at the tiny structures and fibres within a healthy heart. Scientists know that changes in these tiny heart structures are linked to serious heart conditions like heart attacks or thickened heart walls. The study aims to make these special MRI scans better. Researchers want to figure out how different MRI scanners, staff, and ways of analysing the images can affect the results. By understanding these differences, they can make sure future studies using cDTI are more accurate and reliable. The long-term goal is to help doctors better understand, spot, and treat various heart conditions, ultimately improving heart care for everyone.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

University of Leeds

Enrolment target

252

Start

01 Jul 2026

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2027

Evaluation of cardiac microstructure with cardiac DTI

What is this study about?

Imagine your heart is like a finely woven basket, made of many tiny fibres. This study uses a special type of MRI scan, called cardiac diffusion tensor imaging (cDTI), to look at these tiny fibres and structures in your heart in amazing detail. We know that in healthy hearts, these fibres are arranged in a very specific way, allowing your heart to pump blood effectively. However, in people with certain heart conditions, these tiny arrangements can change, like the fibres becoming disorganised or scarred. These changes are important because they can affect how well the heart works.

At the moment, these special heart scans are quite complex, and different hospitals or research centres might get slightly different results, even when scanning the same heart. This study's main goal is to understand why these differences happen. Researchers want to see how various factors, like the MRI scanner itself, the person operating it, or even the way the images are processed, can influence the results. By figuring this out, they can find the best ways to do these scans, making them more consistent and reliable across different places.

Why does this matter? By making these advanced MRI scans more accurate and easier to use, doctors and researchers will be better equipped to understand heart health and disease. This could lead to earlier detection of heart problems, better ways to track how well treatments are working, and even help develop new medicines or therapies for heart conditions in the future. While you won't personally benefit directly from taking part, your contribution will help lay the groundwork for significant improvements in heart care down the line.

Key takeaways

Uses advanced MRI to study heart's tiny structures.
Aims to improve MRI techniques for heart research.
Looking for healthy volunteers aged 18-65.
Involves 1-to-many MRI scans, lasting 60-90 minutes each.
Participation helps future heart care, no personal benefit.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for healthy volunteers, both men and women, who are aged between 18 and 65 years old. Your body mass index (BMI), which is a measure of your weight compared to your height, should be between 18.5 and 29.9. The researchers are trying to recruit an equal number of men and women.

Unfortunately, if you have any existing health conditions that might affect your heart, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of heart attacks, you won't be able to join this particular study. Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you experience severe claustrophobia (a fear of confined spaces) that would make an MRI scan difficult, you wouldn't be suitable.

For some participants, the study involves travelling to different locations for scans. If you're interested in that part of the study, you'll need to be able to travel independently between places and have all your scans completed within a two-month period. You'll also need valid travel documents, like a passport, that are valid for long enough to cover your travel.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
Do you have a healthy weight for your height (BMI 18.5-29.9)?
Do you have any heart conditions or other serious health issues?
Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do you have any metal implants or devices that are not MRI-safe?
Do you experience severe claustrophobia (fear of small spaces)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first be given detailed information about the study to read. If you’re still interested, the research team will check if you meet all the criteria for the study. If you do, you'll then be asked to sign a consent form, which means you agree to participate and understand what's involved.

You will have one MRI scan at each study site you visit. Before each scan, your height and weight will be measured, and you'll complete a questionnaire to make sure it's safe for you to have an MRI. During the scan, small stickers (electrodes) will be placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat. The MRI scan itself will typically last between 60 to 90 minutes. For those who travel to multiple sites, arrangements for travel and accommodation will be made for you by the study team.

Potential risks and benefits

This study is purely for research, meaning you won't personally receive any direct health benefits, and the scans won't be used for diagnosis. However, your participation will greatly help our understanding of heart conditions, potentially benefiting future patients. MRI scans are generally very safe and don't use harmful radiation. The main risk is feeling anxious or uncomfortable if you have claustrophobia, but the staff will do their best to make you feel at ease. For those travelling, there's a small risk associated with travel itself, but arrangements will be made with reputable companies. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (27)

Barts Health NHS Trust
City only
London, England
Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre
City only
Cardiff, Wales
Royal Brompton Hospital
Approximate
London, England
University College London
Approximate
London, England
University of Leeds
Approximate
Leeds, England
University of Oxford
Approximate
Oxford, England
Aarhus University Hospital
Approximate
Aarhus, Denmark
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Approximate
Boston, United States of America
Boston Children's Hospital
Approximate
Boston, United States of America
Brussels University Hospital
City only
Brussels, Belgium
Cleveland Clinic
Unverified
Cleveland, United States of America
Copenhagen University
Unverified
Copenhagen, Denmark

Common questions

What is cDTI?

cDTI is a special type of MRI scan that allows researchers to look very closely at the tiny structures and fibres within your heart.

Will I get my scan results?

No, these scans are for research purposes only and are not used for clinical diagnosis. You will not receive individual results.

How long does each MRI scan take?

Each MRI scan typically takes between 60 to 90 minutes.

Do I have to travel for the study?

Some participants will travel to multiple sites for scans, but there are also opportunities for non-travelling participants at specific sites outside the UK.

When will the study start and end?

The study runs from July 2026 to August 2029.

How to find out more

Kathryn Richards

k.h.richards@leeds.ac.uk +44 (0)1133928250 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.