A high temporal/spatial resolution neuro-architecture study of rodent brain by wideband echo planar imaging

Latest simultaneous multi-slice (SMS) methods greatly benefit MR efficiency for recent studies using parallel imaging technique. However, these methods are limited by the requirement of array coils. The proposed Coherent Wideband method, which employs an extended field of view to separate multiple excited slices, can be applied to any existing MRI instrument, even those without array coils. In this study, the Coherent Wideband echo-planar imaging method was implemented on 7 T animal MRI to exhibit comprehensive enhancements in neuro-architecture, including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and functional MR studies (fMRI). Under the same scan time, the time-saving effect can be manipulated to increase the number of averages for DTI SNR improvement, reducing fractional anisotropy difference by 56.9% (from 0.072 to 0.041) and the deviation angle by 64% (from 25.3 degrees to 16.2 degrees). In summary, Coherent Wideband Echo Planar Imaging (EPI) will provide faster, higher resolution, thinner slice, or higher SNR imaging for precision neuro-architecture studies.

Automated summary

The proposed Coherent Wideband method can enhance neuro-architecture studies by separating multiple excited slices, and is applicable to any existing MRI instrument, even those without array coils. This method also improves scan efficiency and image quality, providing faster, higher resolution, thinner slice, or higher SNR imaging for precision neuro-architecture studies.