Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
09:18

Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Published on: January 12, 2019

The use of MRI as an outcome measure in clinical trials

David K B Li1, Mary Jane Li, Anthony Traboulsee

  • 1Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia Hospital, Vancouver, Canada.

Advances in Neurology
|January 13, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical trials. MRI activity outcomes, like new Gd-enhancing and T2 lesions, are accepted as primary efficacy measures for therapies aiming to prevent relapses.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS) pathology is complex and impacts clinical outcomes.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides objective insights into MS pathology.
  • MRI outcome measures are integral to modern MS clinical trials.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the role of MRI outcome measures in assessing treatment efficacy for Multiple Sclerosis.
  • To determine the appropriateness of MRI measures as surrogate endpoints in MS clinical trials.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current evidence and acceptance of MRI measures in MS clinical trials.
  • Analysis of MRI metrics such as Gadolinium-enhancing (Gd) and T2 lesions.
  • Comparison of MRI activity outcomes with clinical endpoints like relapses.

Main Results:

  • MRI changes correlate with various aspects of MS pathology.
  • New Gd-enhancing and T2 lesions are considered appropriate surrogate outcomes for relapse prevention.
  • MRI activity outcomes are recommended as primary efficacy measures.

Conclusions:

  • While not fully validated as surrogates, MRI measures offer objective evidence in MS trials.
  • MRI activity outcomes are suitable primary endpoints for therapies targeting relapse prevention in MS.

Related Concept Videos

Magnetic Resonance Imaging01:24

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI01:21

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, or CMRI, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that employs a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to create precise images of the heart and arteries. It provides comprehensive information about cardiac anatomy, function, perfusion, and tissue characterization without ionizing radiation.IndicationsCMRI diagnoses various heart conditions, including tissue damage from heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, myocarditis, aortic issues (tears, aneurysms,...
Brain Imaging01:14

Brain Imaging

Brain imaging technologies provide critical insights into both the structure and function of the human brain, enabling medical professionals and researchers to diagnose, study, and treat neurological disorders or psychiatric disorders more effectively.
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans),  magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),  functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging01:27

Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI01:14

Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI

Introduction: MRI and CT scans are crucial advancements in medical imaging techniques, playing a vital role in diagnosing conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Each scan serves distinct purposes, targets specific areas, and requires unique nursing duties.
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...