# Improved MRI guidance of pediatric catheterization via autonomous multi-beat data synthesis

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · 2024 · $91,491

## Abstract

Project Summary
Parent Award: MRI guidance of cardiac catheterization provides a non-ionizing
alternative to X-ray fluoroscopy and can improve soft tissue contrast. Recent advances have
increased the availability of MRI-safe devices, but clinical use remains limited due to the
relatively poor image quality of single-shot, real-time MRI. In this research, we propose to
develop a novel, multi-beat data acquisition and image analysis approach to improve
anatomic image quality and device visualization, which we test in silico, in vitro, and in
vivo.
 Supplement: This supplement extends the multi-beat approach being developed in the
parent award by incorporating inline assessment of image quality to the framework and supports
the training and development of a bioengineering graduate student (who is also part of the
physician-scientist MD/PhD training program). Early work by the applicant has demonstrated
that we can quickly score image quality with respect to number of k-space samples available for
image reconstruction and the presence of cardiac and respiratory motion artifacts. However, we
have yet to combine this finding with the multi-beat approach described in the parent award.
Therefore, in this supplement, we propose to validate our image quality scoring, incorporate
image quality metrics into our multi-beat imaging, and test the utility in patients. The use of
image quality as a metric for closed-loop control is expected to make our multi-beat imaging
more robust and more adaptive to patient-specific differences and changes over time.
 In addition to this new research direction, the supplement outlines tailored training for a
promising MD/PhD student who is joining the principal investigators laboratory. Together, they
have developed a set of training activities which will enable him to thrive at the interface of
cardiology, radiology, and bioengineering. The ongoing collaboration with pediatric cardiologists
developed by the parent award is the perfect setting for him to develop an interdisciplinary
training. He will have the ability to shadow clinical care of patients and take part in
multidisciplinary patient discussions. In addition, support for his scientific publishing and
conference presentations will provide him with the networking, publication, and training
experiences he needs to continue to work in this translational field.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11059820
- **Project number:** 3R01HL162671-03S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- **Principal Investigator:** Francisco J Contijoch
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $91,491
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2022-06-15 → 2027-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11059820

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11059820, Improved MRI guidance of pediatric catheterization via autonomous multi-beat data synthesis (3R01HL162671-03S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-28 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11059820. Licensed CC0.

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