Dr. Matthias Friedrich
Professor, Departments of Medicine and Diagnostic Radiology, Division of Experimental Medicine
My research is focused on novel clinical applications of cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging. This typically involves pre-clinical and clinical testing of novel CMR protocols (“sequences”). We consider the myocardial tissue as the most important diagnostic target for such novel applications. In the past, I have introduced methods such as imaging myocardial edema in acute heart disease or T1 mapping in myocardial infarction. Currently, we are very interested in measuring coronary vascular function using a combination of a method called oxygenation-sensitive CMR in combination with specific breathing maneuvers. For the required advanced CMR image data analysis, we are applying state-of-the-art CMR techniques, multi-parametric strategies and specific deep learning algorithms, for which we have close collaborations with industry partners (MR manufacturers and software companies).
- The impact of food intake on coronary vascular function
This study aims for assessing the effect of two different meal types (fatty vs carbohydrate-rich) on the response of myocardial oxygenation to a standardized breathing maneuver (hyperventilation, followed by a long breath-hold). We will be using Oxygenation-Sensitive CMR to measure the myocardial oxygenation response.
- The relationship between anxiety and coronary vascular function
The goal of this study is to better understand how anxiety-associated breathing patterns may impact the vascular response of the heart to a standardized breathing maneuver (hyperventilation, followed by a long breath-hold). We will use Oxygenation-Sensitive CMR to measure the myocardial oxygenation response.
- Comparison of two different cardiac T1 mapping techniques respect to robustness, image quality and results
This project will compare a novel, ultra-fast technique for cardiac T1 mapping (based on SASHA) with a conventional mapping sequence (MOLLI). In patients with suspected myocardial disease, the clinical utility will be measured using standard criteria.