Helium-3 MRI reveals hidden airflow secrets in lungs

NCT ID NCT02154568

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study uses a special MRI technique with inhaled helium-3 gas to measure how fast air moves through the windpipe and lungs. Researchers will compare airflow in healthy volunteers and people with COPD or constrictive bronchitis. The goal is to gather real-world data to improve computer models that predict breathing problems.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

hyperpolarized helium-3 gas

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors better understand and predict airflow problems in lung diseases like COPD, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment planning.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study focused on measuring airflow, not testing a treatment. The results may not directly lead to new therapies or apply to all patients with lung disease.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD, severe early onset

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Snyder Translation Fontaine Research Center 480 Ray C. Hunt Drive

    Charlottesville, Virginia, 22908, United States

  • University of Virginia Health System

    Charlottesville, Virginia, 22908, United States