MTR variations in normal adult brain structures using balanced steady-state free precession

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Biophysics
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Magnetization transfer (MT) is sensitive to the macromolecular environment of water protons, offering unique information beyond conventional MRI.
• MT-sensitized balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) enables high-resolution imaging with reduced acquisition times.
• This study focused on acquiring high-resolution MT ratio (MTR) images of normal-appearing brain structures using bSSFP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of MT-sensitized bSSFP for acquiring high-resolution MTR images of brain structures.
• To assess the feasibility of this technique for clinical routine use.
• To establish normative MTR data for brain structures.

Main Methods:

• Twelve subjects underwent imaging on a 1.5 T scanner.
• 3D MT images were acquired with 1.3 mm isotropic resolution.
• Complete MT data acquisition was achieved in under 3.5 minutes, with 41 white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM) structures identified.

Main Results:

• MTR values were higher in WM compared to GM.
• Acquired MTR values generally aligned with existing literature.
• MTR values exhibited greater homogeneity within WM and GM structures compared to previous studies.

Conclusions:

• MT-sensitized bSSFP yields isotropic, high-resolution MTR images suitable for assessing small brain structures.
• The technique allows for reliable MTR data acquisition within clinically feasible times.
• This method is a promising tool for clinical routine and provides normative data for future brain pathology characterization.