MRI Sequence and Imaging Protocol Development

In medical research, there is a continuous need to develop new imaging techniques such as cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. This will allow us to visualize and study the function and structure of the heart in greater detail so as to improve the diagnosis and treatment of patients with various cardiac conditions. The aim of the study is to optimise new CMR sequences, allowing the development of imaging protocols in future research studies.

This study will hence recruit 800 subjects for each of the following sub-studies:

1. Sub-study 1: Normal CMR protocols for assessment of cardiac function and morphology
2. Sub-study 2: Exercise stress protocols with a CMR-compatible supine bike.

For the first sub-study, 400 healthy volunteers and patients with cardiac conditions or suspected to have cardiac conditions will be recruited. The testing and optimising of CMR sequence settings are crucial to ensure the accuracy and robustness of the scan before using the scan as a clinical diagnostic tool.

For the second sub-study, 400 healthy volunteers of different fitness levels and and patients with cardiac conditions or suspected to have cardiac conditions will be recruited. An exercise stress protocol will then be developed for future studies in patients with suspected coronary artery diseases. For this protocol, participants will be asked to cycle on a supine exercise bike to assess the effects of exercise and free breathing on the stability of the CMR imaging sequences.