# Noninvasive detection of NASH by magnetic resonance elastography (MRE)

> **NIH NIH K23** · MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER · 2020 · $169,128

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an established precursor of end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular
carcinoma. To date, liver biopsy remains the only test available to detect the two diagnostic features of NASH:
hepatocyte ballooning and lobular inflammation, but it is limited by invasiveness and potential complications.
The central hypothesis of this application is that magnetic resonance elastogram (MRE) can discriminate
NASH from simple steatosis. The hypothesis is supported by strong preliminary data which show that with
novel technological modifications, MRE can isolate imaging parameters that correlate with inflammation and
ballooning. A single multiparametric test that combines inflammation and ballooning assessment by MRE,
and steatosis measurement by MRI-proton density fat fraction has the potential to provide a comprehensive
estimation of the 3 components of histologic NAFLD activity score (NAS) in one setting. The objective of this
study is to determine and validate the diagnostic performance of this single multiparametric test (henceforth
named Hepatogram) for the detection of NASH in human subjects. We will test the central hypothesis in 3
AIMs. In AIM 1 we will use a cohort of obese subjects scheduled for bariatric surgery to assess NASH
histologically by liver biopsy obtained during bariatric surgery and noninvasively before surgery by
Hepatogram. The imaging parameters of inflammation, ballooning and steatosis will be used to develop a
statistical model to predict histologic NAS score. In AIM 2 we will validate this statistical model in an
independent, non-bariatric NAFLD cohort, in whom NASH will be diagnosed by liver biopsy and assessed by
Hepatogram. In AIM 3 we will examine the longitudinal diagnostic performance of Hepatogram in the detection
of NASH regression after weight-loss interventions. We will reevaluate the bariatric cohort described in Aim 1,
one year after bariatric surgery by assessing for NASH regression by Hepatogram and liver biopsy. The
predictive performance of the statistical model developed in Aim 1 and validated in Aim 2 will be examined by
comparing the predicted MRE-based change in NAS score to the change in histologic NAS. This proposal will
apply technically innovative approaches to a large, rigorously characterized population with NAFLD to test the
hypothesis that Hepatogram is an accurate imaging biomarker for NASH diagnosis, monitoring and response
to interventions. Obviating the impractical need for liver biopsy to diagnose NASH before onset of fibrosis
would positively impact the care of NAFLD patients. This work will be performed in an academically nurturing
environment within Mayo Clinic. The candidate will be guided by a strong mentorship committee of experts in
the areas that the candidate identified for necessary training. The candidate acquired a strong foundation in
statistical skills in assessment of disease risk, prognostication and outcomes evaluation during her...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9830065
- **Project number:** 5K23DK115594-03
- **Recipient organization:** MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Alina M Allen
- **Activity code:** K23 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $169,128
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-02-15 → 2022-11-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9830065

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9830065, Noninvasive detection of NASH by magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) (5K23DK115594-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9830065. Licensed CC0.

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