Ladislav Valkovič, PhD

Info:

I am interested in development of new localization and investigation methods for non-invasive assessment of energy metabolism of human skeletal muscle, liver and heart in vivo. This mainly involves sequence development and protocol design for ultra-high field (7 T) multi-nuclear MR Spectroscopy and Spectroscopic Imaging (primarily phosphorus – 31P and proton – 1H, but also carbon – 13C).

Multi-nuclear MRS techniques provide unique insight into lipid and energy metabolism, thus, describing the physio- and pathophysiological function of the organ of interest. I am, therefore, interested in application of these techniques in measurements of muscle specific mitochondrial metabolism changes after lifestyle interventions and in disease, such as peripheral arterial disease. Our lab is equipped with ergometers for calf and thigh muscle exercise with intensity setup suitable for patients as well highly trained individuals, providing endless possibilities for dynamic 31P examinations. Investigation of hepatic ATP synthesis using saturation transfer technique in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is also of my interest. Furthermore, absolute quantification of energy metabolites in human heart also belongs into my research focus.

Besides my research activities, I am involved in student supervision and other educational activities of the Medical University of Vienna.

Even though I am currently (till 2017) stationed at the University of Oxford, where I pursue further extension of my knowledge of multi-unclear MRS, I am still actively involved in many running projects of the High-field MR Centre in Vienna.