Project description
Unified multi-contrast MRI framework yields more accurate tissue microstructure insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can reveal tissue microstructure through multiple contrast mechanisms, yet these are typically analysed in isolation using individual biophysical models. This can lead to fragmented, inconsistent and even contradictory outcomes for the same tissue features. With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the MANTIS project aims to overcome this by developing a unified multi-contrast MRI framework that integrates four key MRI contrasts in a single, coherent model of tissue microstructure. It will be developed using brain organoids, simulations and a multiple sclerosis animal model. Capturing shared and complementary information across contrasts, the framework could pave the way to improved disease characterisation and biomarker discovery.
Objective
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides a uniquely versatile, non-invasive window into tissue microstructure, thanks to its wide array of contrast mechanisms. Yet, each contrast relies on its own biophysical model to extract quantitative information. This siloed approach often leads to fragmented, inconsistent, or even contradictory representations of the same tissue features, introducing confounding factors and limiting interpretability. This project aims to develop a unified multi-contrast MRI framework that integrates four key contrasts—T1 and T2 relaxation, magnetization transfer, and diffusion—within a single, coherent biophysical model of tissue microstructure. By capturing both shared and complementary information across contrasts, the framework will overcome critical limitations of current single-contrast approaches and improve the specificity and robustness of microstructural imaging. The methodology combines innovative acquisition strategies with advanced signal modeling and optimization, designed to enhance sensitivity across contrasts. Development will be carried out using a cutting-edge experimental pipeline that includes brain organoids, numerical simulations, and tissue-mimicking phantoms. The framework will be validated against histological biomarkers for tissue microstructure in a rodent model of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)—a disease marked by multiple overlapping pathological mechanisms—where it holds strong potential for improved disease characterization and biomarker discovery. By bridging MRI physics, computational modeling, and experimental neurobiology, this project will lay the groundwork for a new generation of quantitative MRI tools with high translational value for neuroscience and clinical research.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
This project's classification has been human-validated.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
This project's classification has been human-validated.
- natural sciences biological sciences neurobiology
- medical and health sciences medical biotechnology tissue engineering
- natural sciences computer and information sciences computational science
- natural sciences biological sciences biophysics
- engineering and technology medical engineering diagnostic imaging magnetic resonance imaging
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2025-PF
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
13284 Marseille
France
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.