SNR-efficient whole-brain pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling perfusion imaging at 7 T.

Magn Reson Med

Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, FMRIB, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.

Published: September 2025


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Article Abstract

Purpose: To optimize pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling (PCASL) parameters to maximize SNR efficiency for RF power constrained whole brain perfusion imaging at 7 T.

Methods: We used Bloch simulations of pulsatile laminar flow to optimize the PCASL parameters for maximum SNR efficiency, balancing labeling efficiency and total RF power. The optimization included adjusting the inter-RF pulse spacing (TR), mean B (B ), slice-selective gradient amplitude (G), and mean gradient amplitude (G). In vivo data were acquired from six volunteers at 7 T to validate the optimized parameters. Dynamic B-shimming and flip angle adjustments were used to avoid needing to make the PCASL parameters robust to B/B variations.

Results: The optimized PCASL parameters achieved a significant (3.3×) reduction in RF power while maintaining high labeling efficiency. This allowed for longer label durations and minimized deadtime, resulting in a 118% improvement in SNR efficiency in vivo compared to a previously proposed protocol. Additionally, the static tissue response was improved, reducing the required distance between labeling plane and imaging volume.

Conclusion: These optimized PCASL parameters provide a robust and efficient approach for whole brain perfusion imaging at 7 T, with significant improvements in SNR efficiency and reduced specific absorption rate burden.

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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12202723PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/mrm.30527DOI Listing

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