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A Standardized Protocol for Functional Motor Mapping Using Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Published on: February 27, 2026
Functional arterial spin labeling: Optimal sequence duration for motor activation mapping in clinical practice
Hélène Raoult1, Jean-Christophe Ferré, Jan Petr
1CHU Rennes, Department of Neuroradiology, Rennes, France. helene.raoult@chu-rennes.fr
Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging : JMRI
|August 29, 2012
Summary
A 4-minute functional arterial spin labeling (fASL) sequence provides reliable and reproducible motor activation mapping, comparable to longer sequences. This duration is optimal for clinical applications.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)
- Physiology
Background:
- Functional arterial spin labeling (fASL) is an MRI technique used for brain imaging.
- Optimizing fASL sequence duration is crucial for accurate and reproducible motor activation mapping.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the minimal optimal functional arterial spin labeling (fASL) sequence duration for steady and reproducible motor activation mapping.
Main Methods:
- 12 healthy subjects underwent three MRI sessions with fASL and BOLD fMRI at 3T.
- The 7-minute fASL sequence was truncated to 1-6 minutes for comparison.
- Activation location, quantification (cerebral blood flow), and reproducibility were assessed using ANOVA and Tukey's tests.
Main Results:
- A 4-minute fASL sequence demonstrated steady activation location and quantification.
- Activated volume was 81% of the 7-minute fASL, with barycenter proximity.
- Reproducibility of 4-minute fASL was high and statistically equivalent to 7-minute fASL.
Conclusions:
- A 4-minute fASL sequence is a reliable tool for motor activation mapping.
- This optimized duration is suitable for clinical practice, balancing accuracy and efficiency.
