SYNAPSE Working Group (work in progress)
SYstemic Neuroimmunology MRI: Protocols, Standards & Evidence
Scope
SYNAPSE is an open, member-driven working group focused on MRI for **neuroimmunological diseases** including **MS, NMOSD, MOGAD, and Susac syndrome**. Our aims are to (1) define clinical needs, (2) harmonize **multicentre** protocols and QC, (3) advance **contrast-free/safety-minded** MRI, and (4) promote reproducible analysis and data sharing.
Origin
This group emerged from the MIS discussion: How_can_MRI_overcome_challenges_in_multiple_sclerosis.
Conveners
- Sonia Waiczies (MDC Berlin-Buch) – contact: sonia.waiczies@mdc-berlin.de
- Myrte Strik (Spinoza Center, Amsterdam)
- Friedemann Paul (Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin)
- .....
- (To add)
Participation
Open to clinicians, physicists, data scientists, and industry collaborators. To join, add your name below and/or email the conveners.
- Members
- Name (Affiliation) – focus/interests
- Name (Affiliation) – focus/interests
Work Packages
still under construction
- WP1 – Clinical needs & endpoints
Define use-cases across MS, NMOSD, MOGAD, Susac; propose measurable MRI endpoints.
- WP2 – Acquisition & harmonization
Standardization, guideline preparation, preparation and publication of simple vendor-agnostic protocols (field strengths, sequences), phantom/QC.
- WP3 – Analysis & reproducibility
Pipelines, containers, benchmarking datasets, reporting standards.
Deliverables & Timeline
- **M1–M3:** Charter + member list + initial protocol draft
- **M4–M6:** Consensus note (v1) + shared repository (protocols/QC/templates)
- **M6–M12:** Multicentre pilot + benchmark results + session/BoF proposal for ESMRMB
Meeting Rhythm
- **Kick-off call:** Month YYYY (virtual, 60–75 min)
- **Quarterly calls:** progress & decisions
- **Annual** in-person touchpoint at ESMRMB (BoF/Workshop)
Resources
- MIS page: How_can_MRI_overcome_challenges_in_multiple_sclerosis
- Shared repo/drive: (link to be added)
- Submission templates: (abstract/protocol/QC forms – to be added)
- Upload figures/files via Special:Upload and include with
File:YourFile.png Caption
How to Contribute
- Add yourself under Members and note interests.
- Propose major edits on the Discussion tab.
- Volunteer for a WP and suggest milestones.
Notes
Please follow the wiki’s Terms & Code of Conduct.