Can an Iron-Based dye reveal hidden inflammation in progressive MS?
NCT ID NCT05357833
First seen Aug 13, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This pilot study tests whether a special MRI contrast agent called ferumoxytol can highlight areas of active inflammation in the brains of people with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS). The goal is to see if this imaging method can distinguish chronic-active lesions—which may drive worsening disability—from inactive ones. Adults aged 35 to 65 with SPMS will receive an intravenous infusion of ferumoxytol and a standard contrast agent, then undergo MRI scans before and after to measure signal changes. The study also checks the safety and tolerability of ferumoxytol in this group.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Ferumoxytol (an iron-based MRI contrast agent) and gadoteridol (a standard MRI contrast agent)
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could lead to a new MRI technique to identify active inflammation in progressive MS, helping doctors monitor disease and potentially guide treatment decisions.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small early-phase pilot study, so results may not be conclusive. The imaging marker may not reliably distinguish active from inactive lesions, and ferumoxytol carries risks like allergic reactions or iron overload.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of Utah Health Imaging and Neurosciences Center
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84108, United States
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