Clinical Research Alert: Observational Study of MRI/MRS Measures in Boys with DMD

Researchers at the University of Florida are seeking non-ambulatory boys living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) to participate in a study evaluating advanced imaging techniques. The goal is to determine whether these techniques can be used in future clinical trials to assess new therapies aimed at improving muscle and cardiac health in people with DMD.

About the study

This study will utilize magnetic resonance image (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS), combined with functional tests, to track changes in muscle and heart function over time in non-ambulatory boys with DMD. The findings will help investigators better understand disease progression and determine whether these imaging and functional measures can effectively detect changes in muscle and heart health.

Participants in this study will attend a baseline clinic visit and a follow-up visit one year later. At both visits, they will undergo a number of assessments, including: Upper-limb movement and function tests; arm strength testing; MRI scans of the upper arm to measure muscle health, fat, metabolism, blood vessels, and blood-flow response; and cardiac MRI to assess heart function.

Study criteria

Individuals may be eligible for the study if they meet the following key criteria:

• Non-ambulatory male
• Aged 10-20 years
• DMD diagnosis

 Individuals may not be eligible to participate in the following cases:

• Contraindication to MRI examination (e.g., metal implant)
• Receiving medications that alter blood flow and mitochondrial function

Interested in participating?

Travel support is available for study participants.

To learn more, you can reach out to the study coordinator Megan X. Neal by email: mxiumei.neal@phhp.ufl.edu or phone: (352) 214-2345.