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Ultrahigh-field animal MRI system with advanced technological update
Yaohui Wang1,2, Guyue Zhou3, Haoran Chen3
1Institute of Electrical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China. yhw@mail.iee.ac.cn.
Npj Imaging
|July 3, 2025
Summary
This study details a new 7 Tesla (T) animal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system designed for preclinical research. The system features an ultra-shielding strategy for easier installation and maintenance, enabling high-performance imaging.
Area of Science:
- Preclinical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Background:
- Animal MRI systems are crucial for preclinical research, offering superior performance compared to human systems.
- Achieving high performance in animal MRI is complex due to intricate system components and integration challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the design, fabrication, measurement, and integration of a novel 7 Tesla (T) animal MRI system.
- To highlight the performance and key features of the developed animal MRI system.
Main Methods:
- The magnet and gradient assembly utilized an ultra-shielding strategy for simplified installation, maintenance, and debugging.
- Zero-force control was implemented for the gradient coil, ensuring mechanical reliability.
- Proprietary imaging software was used for system debugging and image acquisition.
Main Results:
- The developed 7T animal MRI system demonstrated several performance highlights.
- The main magnetic field achieved acceptable homogeneity and stability.
- The gradient coil proved mechanically reliable.
Conclusions:
- The new 7T animal MRI system facilitates easier installation, maintenance, and debugging through its ultra-shielding design.
- The system is capable of generating high-quality images of phantoms, fruits, and organisms.
- Further research will focus on enhancing functional capabilities for increased scientific output.

