Assessing Lung Ventilation and Gas Exchange Using Xenon MRI in Adults with Muco-Obstructive Lung Diseases Including Severe Asthma and COPD

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating ventilation problems in the lungs caused by mucus plugs in patients with muco-obstructive pulmonary diseases such as severe asthma, COPD, non-CF bronchiectasis, and cystic fibrosis. The study uses xenon MRI to assess how these mucus plugs affect lung function by identifying blocked airways and measuring ventilation and gas exchange impairments. This observational study aims to better understand lung function changes related to mucus obstruction. Participants will undergo imaging with a special contrast agent called hyperpolarized 129 xenon gas during MRI scans. Mucus plugs are first identified using CT scans, and then xenon MRI evaluates lung regions downstream of these plugs to study ventilation defects and gas exchange changes. This process occurs at baseline and includes assessments of ventilation defects and gas exchange before and after bronchodilator use. During the study, participants will complete lung function tests including spirometry, and their lung imaging will be analyzed. The researchers will monitor ventilation defects in mucus-blocked regions and track changes in gas exchange with bronchodilator treatment. Participants must be able to complete study assessments and will be followed through the study period until completion in December 2026.

Evaluation of Ventilation Defects Downstream of Mucus Plugs in Patients With Muco-Obstructive Lung Disease