Preclinical MRI is a powerful translational tool that enables study of the brain in animal models using the same tools available clinically for humans. However, imaging in animal models also presents some unique challenges. Even simple study designs can quickly multiply to require hundreds or even thousands of images.
At the Mouse Imaging Centre, we have addressed this challenge using a form of parallel imaging called multiple-mouse MRI, in which multiple mice or tissue specimens are imaged simultaneously using multiple independent radiofrequency coils in the same magnet and gradient bore. While simple conceptually, this approach is enabling for many studies that would otherwise not be possible. Brian Nieman discusses multiple implementations, including current Bruker systems including a 7-Tesla magnet equipped with four cryogenically-cooled coils for in vivo imaging and a newly installed 24-channel 11.7-Tesla magnet equipped with 24 channels.
On Demand Session
Dr. Brian Nieman
Senior Scientist at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada and Associate Professor at the University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada