Progress in Quantitative MRI and Hyperpolarization NMR Research

Abstract

Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI) is a non-invasive imaging modality and it does not use ionizing radiation. What is more, MRI provides numerous flexible contrast parameters. Thus, MRI is outstanding in many aspects than many other imaging modalities like computed tomography (CT) and X-Ray. The MRI technique is developing dramatically over the years to serve as a novel tool both in clinical area and science research field.This thesis will include introduction parts for principles in magnetic resonance imaging method from classical view. There are three main parts in this thesis. The first part is about using quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) method and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) method in human brain quantitative MRI study. Several fiber bundles in human brain were picked to track the susceptibility dependence of orientation distribution with respect to the static magnetic field.Second part is using new SABRE-SHEATH method and UV light to get hyperpolarized nitrogen gas. The SABRE-SHEATH method is a novel hyperpolarization method which is cost efficient and simply usable. It will help to transfer the spin state from para-hydrogen to the nitrogen in the targeted molecule with the help of catalyst in solution. The purpose of this study is get hyperpolarized nitrogen gas and this is exciting because it provides a potential in the future lung MRI imaging. The last part of this thesis is a documentation about how to use the 1T MR system at CIVM. The content will include detailed descriptions on different components of the machine. This part will provide introduction from turning on the machine to how to get a simple proton image. There will have several examples on showing the places need to pay attention.