We are researching methods for measuring lung structure and function using MRI.

Oxygen-ehnanced MRI

OE-MRI allows us to monitor oxygen delivery to patients using MRI. When oxygen is delivered to the tissues of the lung it leads to a signal change that we can quantify. We have used this approach in a range of lung diseases, including lung cancer, COPD, asthma, and cystic fibrosis.

Hyperpolarised 129-xenon MRI

We have recently taken delivery of a polariser for 129-xenon, which we will are using for lung MRI studies. Hyperpolarised 129-Xe MRI allows for direct visualisation of the air spaces in the lung, and provides information on the ease of gas transfer from the air spaces into the blood.