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- Pioneering the future of cardiac imaging: A decade of discovery
null Pioneering the future of cardiac imaging: A decade of discovery
Montreal's Cardiovascular MR Research Group marks new era of discovery
SOURCE: The Institute
January 23, 2025
The Cardiovascular MR Research Group at the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute) has been at the forefront of cardiac imaging innovation since its establishment in 2015. With groundbreaking research and a commitment to improving patient outcomes, the team continues to redefine what is possible in cardiovascular care.

Under the leadership of Dr. Matthias Friedrich, Senior Scientist at The Institute, the group has developed pioneering techniques in cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), particularly oxygenation-sensitive CMR (OS-CMR). This needle-free imaging method allows for a non-invasive assessment of tissue pathology and coronary vascular function, revolutionizing cardiac diagnostics and care.
The group is now embarking on an exciting new chapter of expansion, bolstered by the expertise of key researchers, including Dr. Judy Luu and Dr. Michael Chetrit. Dr. Luu’s research on breathing-enhanced OS-CMR is breaking new ground in understanding the vascular bed pathophysiology in both cerebral and coronary regions. Her work holds the promise of earlier detection and more precise treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. Chetrit is leading the way in myocardial tissue characterization, a critical area for diagnosing heart conditions. By incorporating artificial intelligence (AI)─driven algorithms, his research aims to automate and enhance the accuracy of tissue analysis, streamlining diagnostic procedures and improving care delivery.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of the group’s strategy. Through partnerships with national and international stakeholders, the team is ensuring its discoveries are rapidly disseminated and widely implemented. Annual symposiums, joint projects, and formal agreements with academic institutions and industry leaders further amplify the group’s global impact.
Equity in healthcare remains central to the group’s mission. Efforts to develop cost-effective CMR techniques aim to make advanced imaging accessible to underserved communities in low- and middle-income countries, exemplifying their commitment to inclusivity.
Beyond the groundbreaking work of the Cardiovascular MR Research Group, The Institute fosters a multidisciplinary approach to cardiovascular health research through its Cardiovascular Health Across the Lifespan Program, with which Drs. Friedrich, Luu and Chetrit are all affiliated. This program integrates expertise from basic science, genomics, clinical research, and population health to address the complex factors influencing heart health. By exploring diverse areas such as biological markers, health technologies, and preventive strategies, The Institute is driving innovations that span the entire spectrum of cardiovascular care—from personalized medicine to global health solutions. These collaborative efforts ensure that cutting-edge discoveries continue to improve the lives of patients locally and worldwide.
As the Cardiovascular MR Research Group celebrates nearly a decade of innovation, it looks to the future with a clear vision. With advanced imaging techniques, a collaborative ethos, and a commitment to global impact, the group is poised to transform cardiovascular care for years to come.
This research initiative is supported by the MUHC Foundation and was made possible thanks to the Courtois Foundation.
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