Method for quantitative imaging of the macromolecular 1H fraction in tissues

A new method was developed for mapping the relative density of the macromolecular protons involved in magnetization transfer (MT). This method employs a stimulated echo preparation scheme in order to modulate the phase distribution within a spin ensemble. This labeled spin ensemble is then used as an intrinsic indicator, which is diluted due to magnetization exchange with macromolecular protons. A pulse sequence is presented which compensates for longitudinal relaxation, allows observation of the dilution effect only, and provides for calculation of parameter maps using indicator dilution theory. Compared to other quantitative MT techniques, neither additional relaxation time measurements nor knowledge regarding the lineshape of the macromolecular proton pool are required. Moreover, the inherent low specific absorption rate and the low sensitivity for B(1) errors make this method favorable in a clinical setting. This sequence was used to measure the macromolecular proton density in cross-linked bovine serum albumin. Using a navigated echo planar readout, the sequence was also employed to visualize the macromolecular content of human brain in vivo.