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Updated: May 8, 2026
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Quantification of Pulmonary Perfusion using Calibrated Arterial Spin Labeling
Published on: May 30, 2011
Implementation of bidirectional crusher gradient method for measuring labelling efficiency of pseudocontinuous
Xiuli Yang1, Yuguo Li1, Zhiliang Wei1
1Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Abstract:
The pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (pCASL) MRI technique provides a powerful tool for in vivo evaluation of microvascular functions, including cerebral blood flow, blood-brain barrier permeability, and blood-cerebrospinal fluid exchange. These microvascular parameters have emerged as promising biomarkers for tracking pathological progression and therapeutic efficacy in both preclinical and clinical settings. Accurate quantification of pCASL signals requires consideration of labeling efficiency, a critical parameter that can vary substantially in mice due to their small vessel size and intersubject vascular heterogeneity. Determination of labeling efficiency on an individual basis is therefore desirable. Recently, the bidirectional crusher gradient (BIC) method was proposed to measure labeling efficiency in mouse pCASL MRI. The present study aims to outline step-by-step procedures for implementing the BIC method and associated validation studies. (1) Measurement of mouse pCASL MRI labeling efficiency in approximately 3 min (2) Improved accuracy in pCASL-based cerebral perfusion imaging of mice.
Insights
This study details a fast, 3-minute method using bidirectional crusher gradients (BIC) to accurately measure pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (pCASL) MRI labeling efficiency in mice, improving perfusion imaging.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Neuroscience
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (pCASL) MRI is vital for assessing microvascular functions in vivo.
- Accurate pCASL signal quantification relies on precise labeling efficiency, which is challenging in mice due to vascular heterogeneity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a step-by-step protocol for implementing the bidirectional crusher gradient (BIC) method for mouse pCASL MRI.
- To validate the BIC method for accurate, individual determination of labeling efficiency in mice.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of the bidirectional crusher gradient (BIC) technique for pCASL MRI in mice.
- Validation studies to assess the accuracy and efficiency of the BIC method.
Main Results:
- The BIC method enables measurement of mouse pCASL MRI labeling efficiency in approximately 3 minutes.
- This method significantly improves the accuracy of pCASL-based cerebral perfusion imaging in mice.
Conclusions:
- The BIC method offers a rapid and accurate approach for determining labeling efficiency in mouse pCASL MRI.
- This technique enhances the reliability of microvascular function assessment in preclinical research.
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