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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
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MRM Microcoil Performance Calibration and Usage Demonstrated on Medicago truncatula Roots at 22 T
Published on: January 16, 2021
Radiofrequency coils for magnetic resonance microscopy
Thomas Neuberger1, Andrew Webb
1Department of Bioengineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.
NMR in Biomedicine
|February 27, 2008
Summary
Efficient coil design is crucial for magnetic resonance (MR) microscopy to achieve adequate signal-to-noise ratios. Advanced coil technologies, including superconducting and phased array coils, enhance data acquisition speed and sample throughput.
Area of Science:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Biophysics
- Electrical Engineering
Background:
- Magnetic Resonance (MR) microscopy requires higher signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) compared to conventional MRI due to significantly fewer spins per voxel.
- High magnetic fields used in MR microscopy introduce challenges like increased component losses, skin-depth-dependent resistance, and radiation effects in coil design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss efficient coil designs for MR microscopy.
- To highlight coil configurations suitable for various sample sizes and recent advancements improving performance.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of coil types based on sample size: wire solenoids/planar coils for <1 mm samples, and saddle/birdcage/Alderman-Grant/millipede coils for several mm samples.
- Review of advanced techniques including multiple-coil probes, phased arrays, and small superconducting coils.
Main Results:
- Specific coil designs are optimal for different sample dimensions.
- Multiple-coil probes and phased arrays reduce acquisition time and increase sample throughput.
- Small superconducting coils offer superior SNR compared to room-temperature equivalents.
Conclusions:
- Optimized coil design is essential for effective MR microscopy, balancing SNR and acquisition time.
- Technological advancements in coil technology continue to push the boundaries of MR microscopy capabilities.
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