PAXT: Pulmonary Imaging of Mild Asthma Using 129Xe MRI and Tc-99-Labeled-Carbon-Imaging (Tc99CImaging)

PAXT: Pulmonary Imaging of Mild Asthma Using 129Xe MRI and Tc-99-Labeled-Carbon-Imaging (Tc99CImaging)

The goal of this observational study is to better understand how asthma affects the lungs in young adults (ages 17-35) with mild asthma. The main questions it aims to answer are:

• Can advanced imaging detect abnormal airway function in people with mild asthma?
• Do changes in ventilation imaging correlate with asthma symptoms or quality of life? Researchers will compare hyperpolarized xenon-129 MRI and Technegas (Tc-99m) imaging to see if these techniques reveal more detailed lung abnormalities than standard lung function tests.

Participants will:

• Complete a single 2-hour visit
• Undergo two types of lung imaging: Hyperpolarized xenon-129 MRI (to visualize how air moves in the lungs), Technegas (Tc-99m) imaging (to assess airflow using nuclear medicine)
• Perform spirometry and other breathing tests
• Answer questionnaires about asthma symptoms and quality of life This study is designed to improve our understanding of subtle changes in lung function that may not be detected by standard tests in people with mild asthma. The findings may lead to better diagnostic tools and more personalized treatment strategies in the future.

This is a single centre, study in university-aged participants diagnosed with mild asthma as indicated by a prescription for a short acting bronchodilator for use as needed.

Each participant will participate in one research study visit which includes pre- and post- bronchodilator (BD) spirometry, plethysmography, oscillometry, 129Xe MRI as well as pre-BD ultra-low dose chest CT, Tc99CImaging, blood CBC, sputum induction, as well as completion of the ACQ and AQLQ questionnaires.

Inclusion Criteria:

Participants eligible for inclusion in this study must meet all of the following criteria:

1. Participant diagnosed with mild (GINA1) asthma by physician

2. Participant understands study procedures and is willing to participate in the study as indicated by the participant's signature

3. Provision of written, informed consent prior to any study specific procedures

4. Males and females 17 to 35 years of age

5. Women of childbearing potential (after menarche) must ensure that they are using an effective form of birth control for at least 2 months prior to each imaging visit. Examples of effective birth control include:

   1. True sexual abstinence
   2. A vasectomized sexual partner
   3. Implanon®
   4. Female sterilization by tubal occlusion
   5. Effective intrauterine device (IUD)/levonogestrel intrauterine system (IUS)
   6. Depo-Provera™ injections
   7. Oral contraceptive
   8. Evra Patch™
   9. Nuvaring™

Exclusion Criteria:

Participants fulfilling any of the following criteria are not eligible for inclusion in this study:

1. Participant has an implanted mechanically, electrically, or magnetically activated device or any metal in their body which cannot be removed, including but not limited to pacemakers, neurostimulators, biostimulators, implanted insulin pumps, aneurysm clips, bioprosthesis, artificial limb, metallic fragment or foreign body, shunt, surgical staples (including clips or metallic sutures and/or ear implants) (at the discretion of the MRI Technologist)
2. In the investigator's opinion, subject suffers from any physical, psychological or other condition(s) that might prevent performance of the MRI, CT, or Tc99CImaging, such as severe claustrophobia
3. Participants who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a positive pregnancy test at initial screening visit
4. Participant is unable to perform spirometry or plethysmography maneuvers
5. Participant is unable to perform MRI and CT breath-hold maneuvers