2026 Recipient of the Lupus Canada Catalyst Grant

Andrea Knight, MD

Institution: The Hospital for Sick Children

Project Title: A New Approach to Functional Brain Imaging in Childhood-onset Lupus

Project Summary: Children and adolescents diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) are at an increased risk for developing cognitive dysfunction: a decline in cognitive abilities due to brain-related involvement in cSLE. However, the underlying causes for cognitive dysfunction remain poorly understood. One challenge is the lack of correlation between cognitive function and brain imaging tools that are typically used (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI). More precise brain imaging tools are needed to see how brain activity changes in real-time during cognitive tasks. 

We propose using a non-invasive, advanced brain imaging technique that utilizes specialized sensors that detect tiny, moment-to-moment changes in brain activity. Optically Pumped Magnetometer-Magnetoencephalography (OPM-MEG) is a new innovative technology that makes it easier to study brain function in youth. Using OPM-MEG will allow us to understand differences in features of brain activity in both patients with cSLE and their healthy peers. We will look at how brain activity changes during tasks (e.g., processing speed, attention, executive functioning, emotional processing) and during rest. The brain signals will be analyzed along with other information such as assessments of cognitive function. We expect that the timing, strength and localization of brain activity from OPM-MEG will correlate with the cognitive dysfunction seen in youth with cSLE. 

This study will provide new and valuable information on the dynamics of brain changes that underlie cognitive functions in those with cSLE. This new knowledge can then be used to provide more precise recommendations to support brain health in youth with cSLE. We hope that this will improve school and work outcomes. Since this technique is also completely non-invasive, quiet and comfortable, we think that it can improve access to brain imaging for cSLE patients who are having symptoms of cognitive dysfunction.