TOPPE: A framework for rapid prototyping of MR pulse sequences

Area of Science:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Medical Physics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Developing novel magnetic resonance (MR) pulse sequences is crucial for advancing imaging capabilities.
• Traditional MR pulse sequence programming requires specialized hardware knowledge and extensive compilation, hindering rapid innovation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel framework, the Targeted Optimized Pulse-sequence Prototyping Environment (TOPPE), for the rapid prototyping of MR pulse sequences.
• To simplify the process of designing and executing MR imaging experiments by abstracting hardware-specific details.

Main Methods:

• A simple file format, TOPPE, was developed to specify all aspects of an MR imaging experiment, including gradient and radiofrequency waveforms and scan loops.
• A GE scanner-compatible binary executable (interpreter) was created to load and execute TOPPE files.
• MATLAB scripts were provided for creating, reading, writing, and previewing TOPPE files before hardware execution.

Main Results:

• The TOPPE framework successfully implemented and executed three distinct MR sequences: k-space mapping, non-Cartesian PRESTO whole-brain dynamic imaging, and myelin mapping.
• A single TOPPE interpreter binary was utilized to execute multiple sequences by simply modifying TOPPE files, demonstrating flexibility.
• The need for sequence-specific compilation was eliminated, with the interpreter requiring compilation only once per scanner software upgrade.

Conclusions:

• TOPPE provides a complete specification for MR imaging experiments using a modular approach with unique modules.
• The TOPPE file format, coupled with the GE interpreter, establishes a flexible platform for accelerating the development and prototyping of new MR pulse sequences.
• This approach significantly reduces the barrier to entry for pulse sequence programming, fostering innovation in MR imaging research.