[Niigata University of Health and Welfare] Reducing the burden of 're-scans'! AI automatically corrects MRI 'blur'

Lecturer Yoshiyasu Yoshida of the Department of Radiological Technology, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, part of the NSG Group, conducted research to verify a correction method using AI (deep learning) for image blur caused by patient movement during MRI examinations. The results showed the possibility of more accurately evaluating hippocampal volume, which is crucial for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, by correcting blurred brain MRI images. 
These research findings were published on March 22, 2026, in the international journal "Scientific Reports," which covers all areas of natural and health sciences.

About the Research

【Research Overview】

This study verified the effectiveness of a correction method using AI (deep learning) for image blur caused by patient movement during MRI examinations. Brain MRI images of 24 healthy adults were compared: original images, images with motion, and AI-corrected images. The evaluation focused not only on visual appearance but also on the accuracy of hippocampal volume measurement.

As a result, it was shown that even images degraded by motion could have their quality improved through AI correction, making it possible to more accurately evaluate hippocampal volume, which is important for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis.

Furthermore, it was suggested that this method could reduce the need for re-scanning, potentially leading to shorter examination times and reduced patient burden.

This research applies AI-based image correction technology to the quantitative evaluation of brain MRI and is expected to be utilized for image diagnostic support in the field of dementia in the future.

【Researcher's Comment】

◆Yoshiyasu Yoshida, Lecturer, Department of Radiological Technology
In this research, we investigated the potential of image correction using deep learning to address the issue where slight patient movement during MRI examinations affects image quality and diagnostic accuracy. As a result, it was shown that even brain MRI images affected by motion could be corrected by AI, making it possible to more accurately evaluate hippocampal volume, which is crucial for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis. Especially for elderly patients or those who have difficulty controlling their movement, re-scanning is often necessary. We believe that if this method is put into practical use, it can reduce the need for re-examinations, contributing to reduced patient burden and improved efficiency in medical settings.

【Original Paper Information】

Yoshida, N., Kageyama, H., Akai, H., Sasaki, K., Sakurai, N., Koori, N., Yamamoto, S., & Kodama, N.

Deep learning approach to super-resolution correction of brain MRI motion artifacts for accurate hippocampal volumetry.

Scientific Reports (2026).

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-44834-5

【Researcher Information】

Yoshiyasu Yoshida, Lecturer

Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Niigata University of Health and Welfare

【Contact】

Public Relations Division, Admissions and Public Relations Department, Niigata University of Health and Welfare

Address: 1398 Shimami-cho, Kita-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture

TEL: 025-257-4459

【Niigata University of Health and Welfare】　https://www.nuhw.ac.jp/

It is one of the few comprehensive medical universities in Japan, with 6 faculties and 16 departments covering nursing, medical care, rehabilitation, nutrition, sports, welfare, and medical IT. Maximizing the advantages of being a comprehensive medical university, the university offers practical learning in "team medicine," which is essential in the medical field. Furthermore, it has established a university-wide systematic support system for qualification acquisition and employment, achieving top-class national examination pass rates and high employment records nationwide. Leveraging its unique environment with sports-related departments, the university also develops integrated learning that combines "sports" with "medical care," "rehabilitation," and "nutrition."

＜About NSG Group＞

The NSG Group is a corporate group consisting of 101 entities, with education business and medical/welfare/nursing care business at its core. It also operates a wide range of businesses including health/sports, construction/real estate, food/agriculture, trading companies, advertising agencies, ICT, hotels, apparel, beauty, human resources services, and entertainment. Aiming to make each region "the richest and happiest town in the world," the group is engaged in creating businesses that revitalize local communities from a private sector perspective, with "people," "security," "work," and "attractiveness" as keywords.

＜NSG Group Website＞
https://www.nsg.gr.jp/