SPICY: a method for single scan rotating frame relaxometry

T (1 rho) is an NMR relaxation mode that is sensitive to low frequency molecular motions, making it an especially valuable tool in biomolecular research. Here, we introduce a new method, SPICY, for measuring T-1 rho relaxation times. In contrast to conventional T-1 rho experiments, in which the sequence is repeated many times to determine the T-1 rho time, the SPICY sequence allows determination of T-1 rho within a single scan, shortening the experiment time remarkably. We demonstrate the method using H-1 T-1 rho relaxation dispersion experiments. Additionally, we combine the sequence with spatial encoding to produce 1D images in a single scan. We show that T-1 rho relaxation times obtained using the single scan approach are in good agreement with those obtained using the traditional experiments.

Automated summary

T (1 rho) is an NMR relaxation mode sensitive to low frequency molecular motions, making it valuable in biomolecular research. We introduce a new method, SPICY, for measuring T-1 rho relaxation times. The SPICY sequence allows determination of T-1 rho within a single scan, shortening experiment time remarkably. We demonstrate the method using H-1 T-1 rho relaxation dispersion experiments and show good agreement with traditional experiments.