Developing Optimal Parameters for Hyperpolarized Noble Gas and Inert Fluorinated Gas MRI of Lung Disorders

Developing Optimal Parameters for Hyperpolarized Noble Gas (3He and 129Xe) and Inert Fluorinated Gas Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Lung Disorders

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.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Is either:

  1. A healthy volunteer (i.e.: someone not diagnosed with a lung disorder written below; this may include smokers who have not been diagnosed with a lung disorder) or
  2. Has been diagnosed with one of the following respiratory disorders: lung transplants, lung resection, lung cancer, asthma, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, mesothelioma, asbestosis, pulmonary embolism, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis, seasonal allergies, pneumonia, cold virus, lung infection, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary dysplasia, obstructive sleep apnea

• Able to provide informed consent

• Able to hold their breath for imaging:

  1. Healthy volunteers enrolled in this study must be able to hold their breath for 25 seconds
  2. Lung disorder participants must be able to hold their breath for 15 seconds

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have contraindication to MR imaging (i.e. ferrous implants, cardiac pacemakers) - determined by MR screening prior to scans.
• Have a history of claustrophobia.
• Female exclusion only: are or may be pregnant.
• Requires an oxygen mask and cannot use a nasal cannula.
• Blood oxygen saturation is below 92% (measured at rest in a sitting position, and with an O2 nasal cannula if the participant normally uses one).
• Has had an acute respiratory infection in the past 10 days.
• Is a student currently enrolled in a course at Lakehead University where the Principal Investigator (PI) is the instructor.
• Is a student currently enrolled in a degree program at Lakehead University where the PI is their direct thesis supervisor.
• Is currently an employee of the PI at the Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute (TBRRI) and/or Lakehead University.