Summary

The University of Pennsylvania received a $528,460 Project Grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) under the Oral Diseases and Disorders Research program (CFDA 93.121), awarded July 2, 2026, with completion targeted for April 30, 2031. The grant funds research and development of single-scan multi-contrast cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology for pediatric patients. The project addresses limitations in current diagnostic imaging for congenital cranial abnormalities such as craniosynostosis by developing an advanced MRI method that combines ultra-short echo (UTE) sequences with subtraction techniques to produce bone-specific skull images—eliminating the ionizing radiation exposure risks associated with computed tomography (CT) scanning in children while reducing scan time and enabling acquisition of multiple tissue contrasts in a single imaging session.

This research directly supports NIDCR's mission to advance craniofacial health through prevention, early detection, and treatment innovations. The project builds on the investigators' prior work implementing interleaved UTE scans with alternating radiofrequency excitation pulses and aims to overcome current limitations in cranial bone MRI methodology, including prolonged acquisition times. The deliverables include technical improvements to MRI imaging protocols and validated bone imaging techniques applicable to pediatric craniofacial surgical planning and diagnosis.