NCT04778046 · Bastiaan Driehuys
Pulmonary Hypertension SOLAR
(PH SOLAR)
What this study is about
The main goal of this study is to develop a noninvasive signature for pulmonary vascular remodeling in Group 3 PH patients, using hyperpolarized 129Xe magnetic resonance imaging (129Xe MRI). Such a signature may identify Group 3 PH responders to PAH-specific therapies. PAH's unique 129Xe MRI signature has been shown in previous studies.
View original scientific description
The main goal of this study is to develop a noninvasive signature for pulmonary vascular remodeling in Group 3 PH patients, using hyperpolarized 129Xe magnetic resonance imaging (129Xe MRI). Such a signature may identify Group 3 PH responders to PAH-specific therapies. PAH's unique 129Xe MRI signature has been shown in previous studies. Past studies have lacked a pathologic "ground truth" correlate of these signatures, which could be provided by comparing them with the pathology of lung explant tissue from patients who have undergone a lung transplant. This signature could be validated in a cohort of patients with Group 3 PH in future studies.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age ≥ 18 years' old
- Be on the lung transplant waiting list at Duke University Medical Center.
- PH as defined by RHC - mPAP \> 20 mmHg, PVR \> 3 WU, PCWP \< 15 mmHg
- Groups defined as: PAH: Clinical diagnosis of PAH (Group 1 PH) in the absence of severe chronic lung disease, left heart disease, chronic thromboembolism, sarcoidosis, sickle cell disease, or other causes of non-Group 1 PH. COPD-noPH: Clinical diagnosis of COPD in the absence of precapillary PH. COPD-PH: Clinical diagnosis of COPD with precapillary PH. IPF-noPH: Clinical diagnosis of IPF in the absence of precapillary PH. IPF-PH: Clinical diagnosis of IPF with precapillary PH.
- Willing and able to give informed consent and adhere to visit/protocol schedules (consent must be given before any study procedures are performed).
Exclusion criteria
- Moderate to severe heart disease (LVEF \< 45% or severe LV Hypertrophy).
- Sarcoidosis.
- Active cancer.
- Sickle cell anemia.
- Liver disease (Childs-Pugh class C).
- Prisoners and pregnant women will not be approached for the study.
- Inability to obtain consent.
- Conditions that will prohibit MRI scanning (metal in eye, claustrophobia, inability to lie supine).
- Medical or psychological conditions which, in the opinion of the investigator, might create undue risk to the subject or interfere with the subject's ability to comply with the protocol requirements
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations