BSMS > Research > Clinical Neuroscience > Centre for Dementia Studies > Research > CEDAR-lab > Feasibility of Ultra-Low-Field MRI in Dementia Diagnosis (FABULOUS Study)

Feasibility of Ultra-Low-Field MRI in Dementia Diagnosis (FABULOUS Study)

The FABULOUS Study investigates the potential of portable, ultra-low-field (ULF) MRI scanners to improve the assessment and diagnosis of dementia. ULF-MRI technology offers a cost-effective and accessible alternative to standard high-field MRI, enabling easier and wider access to imaging, particularly for individuals with contraindications to traditional MRI scans (e.g., those with metal implants).

This study is conducted by a multidisciplinary team from Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), Kent and Medway Medical School (KMMS), and the Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre (CISC), with funding from Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Why this research matters

Dementia diagnosis often relies on advanced imaging techniques to evaluate brain structure and changes. However, traditional MRI scanners are costly, resource-intensive, and inaccessible to many individuals in remote or underserved areas. The FABULOUS Study seeks to address this by exploring whether portable ULF-MRI scanners can provide reliable diagnostic information while being more accessible and patient-friendly.

If successful, this technology could:

Revolutionise imaging accessibility for dementia diagnostics
Offer more comfortable scanning experiences
Support earlier diagnosis and intervention.

What the study involves

Participants will:

Undergo one additional brain scan with the ULF-MRI scanner during their scheduled clinical imaging session
Complete a short questionnaire about their experience with the ULF-MRI scan
Some participants may be invited for a follow-up interview to explore their experiences further.

Who can take part

We are recruiting individuals referred to memory clinics for brain imaging. To ensure the study is as inclusive as possible, we also welcome those with mild cognitive impairments or early signs of dementia who meet the eligibility criteria.

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

Collaborators

This study is led by:

Prof Itamar Ronen (BSMS)
Dr Gosia Raczek (BSMS)
Professor Dorina Cadar (BSMS)
Prof Naji Tabet (BSMS)
Prof Sukhi Shergill (KMMS)
Dr Jo Rodda (KMMS)

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

Contact us

If you or someone you know is interested in participating, please contact us to find out more. Your involvement could help transform how dementia is diagnosed and managed in the future.

Email: dementia@bsms.ac.uk.

For more information about the FABULOUS Study or to express interest, please reach out to our research team.