Complete advanced brain and spinal cord imaging scans over two years

What is this trial?

The MESO7 study uses advanced brain and spinal cord imaging to understand how nerve cells work and fail in diseases like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, ALS, epilepsy, and others. Researchers will take detailed pictures of your brain using two different strength MRI machines to measure energy levels in nerve cells and how they communicate with each other. This information could help doctors better understand why some people stay healthy while others develop these conditions.

Scientists don't fully understand why some people's brains stay resilient and healthy while others develop serious nerve damage and disease. This study aims to find out what's different in the brains of people who age well versus those who develop neurological diseases, which could lead to better treatments and prevention strategies.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are 18 years old or older
you have been diagnosed with one of the study conditions (multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, ALS, epilepsy, brain injury, or related conditions) or you are a healthy volunteer
you can safely have MRI scans (no pacemakers, metal implants, severe claustrophobia, or severe kidney problems)
you do not have uncontrolled serious illnesses like cancer, severe high blood pressure, or severe psychiatric conditions
you have health insurance or social security coverage and can understand and sign the informed consent form

You likely don't qualify if…

you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study
you cannot or will not consent to participate in the study
you have contraindications for MRI scans, such as pacemakers, metal foreign bodies, severe claustrophobia, or severe kidney failure
you have severe dementia or other cognitive conditions that would prevent you from participating safely
you are allergic to Dotarem (a contrast dye used in some brain scans) or have other conditions that prevent safe MRI scanning

What participation looks like

You will come to the research center for MRI brain and spinal cord imaging scans using two different strength machines. If you have a progressive neurological disease, you may be asked to return for follow-up scans over the next two years to see how your brain changes. The scans are painless and non-invasive, though they require you to lie still inside the MRI machine for periods of time. You may also be asked to complete some brief cognitive or physical tests during your visits.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 1, 2026 · Not medical advice

Brain imaging study to understand nerve damage and healthy aging

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)