Automated data processing of {1H-decoupled} 13C MR spectra acquired from human brain in vivo

In clinical C-13 infusion studies, broadband excitation of 200 ppm of the human brain yields C-13 MR spectra with a time resolution of 2-5 min and generates up to 2000 metabolite peaks over 2 h. We describe a fast, automated, observer-independent technique for processing {H-1-decoupled} C-13 spectra. Quantified C-13 spectroscopic signals, before and after the administration of [1-C-13]glucose and/or [1-C-13]acetate in human subjects are determined. Stepwise improvements of data processing are illustrated by examples of normal and pathological results. Variation in analysis of individual C-13 resonances ranged between 2 and 14%. Using this method it is possible to reliably identify subtle metabolic effects of brain disease including Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.