Blending physics, imaging and cancer care, Georg Oeltzschner, associate professor in the Division of MR Research, is leading an effort to make brain tumor diagnosis more precise and less invasive. Working closely with the neuro-oncology team at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, his group is developing advanced magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) methods to detect trace biochemical compounds in the brain, turning magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) into a molecular-level diagnostic tool.

Unlike conventional MRI, which captures anatomy, MRS measures the brain’s chemical makeup, detecting metabolites that can reveal how a tumor behaves. These signals are extraordinarily faint, about 50,000 times weaker than typical MRI water signals. “It’s like trying to photograph a single star in the night sky, while most imaging techniques are like photographing a scene in broad daylight,” Oeltzschner explains.

The project began about three years ago, supported early on by a 2022 BriteStar Award, which enabled his team to collect pilot data and secure additional research funding. The goal: to extract chemical “fingerprints” that distinguish tumor types, track how they evolve, and guide therapy without surgery or biopsies.

While the technique demands exceptional precision, its potential clinical impact is broad. By detecting subtle metabolic changes, MRS could help physicians monitor whether a tumor is responding to treatment or recurring, all through a simple scan. For patients, this could mean fewer invasive procedures and more personalized care plans.

Oeltzschner’s career reflects his deep commitment to bridging physics and medicine. Trained in magnetic resonance physics and spectroscopy before joining Johns Hopkins, he continues to transform highly technical imaging innovations into tools that directly serve patients. His work exemplifies the department’s mission of translating complex imaging science into practical advances that improve outcomes and quality of life.