The development, validation, and translation of xenon MRI for non-invasive imaging of lung tissue architecture and function
Summary
This PhD project will develop and validate hyperpolarised 129-xenon MRI technology as an imaging biomarker for respiratory diseases, such as asthma or COPD, leveraging the expertise of AstraZeneca, the University of Cambridge (UoC), and Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH).
UoC/CUH is in the final steps of procuring a xenon hyperpolariser for clinical research at Royal Papworth Hospital, CUH, and for translational preclinical research at the Anne McLaren Building, where AstraZeneca and UoC currently perform preclinical respiratory research.
Project aims
Preclinical development: Develop hyperpolarised 129-xenon MRI technology using a mouse model of respiratory disease (e.g., asthma or COPD).
Clinical translation: Validate hyperpolarised 129-xenon MRI in humans with respiratory diseases, comparing findings to existing imaging modalities (e.g., CT imaging).
Methods:
The student will develop and refine xenon MRI protocols for preclinical and clinical use, including image acquisition, processing, and analysis.
The student will use a mouse model of respiratory disease such as elastase induced or spontaneous emphysema, or challenge with alternaria, ozone, LPS or bleomycin to evaluate xenon MRI's ability to detect changes in lung tissue architecture and function.
The student will also be involved in clinical trials in patients with asthma or COPD, using xenon MRI alongside existing imaging modalities to compare xenon MRI findings to CT scans, to conventional proton MRI, and to other biomarkers (e.g., serum, image radiomics, histopathology).
Months 1-6: Training and planning, including personal licence, protocol optimisation Months 7-18: Preclinical studies, development and analysis
Months 19-29: Clinical studies at RPH and Addenbrooke’s
Months 30-36: Publication write-up, e.g., PhD
Contact details
Joshua Kaggie - jk636@cam.ac.uk
Opportunities
This project is open to applicants who want to do a:
- PhD