Quasi-steady-state chemical exchange saturation transfer (QUASS CEST) MRI analysis enables T₁ normalized CEST quantification - Insight into T₁ contribution to CEST measurement.

ABSTRACT: Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI depends not only on the labile proton concentration and exchange rate but also on relaxation rates, particularly T₁ relaxation time. However, T₁ normalization has shown to be not straightforward under non-steady-state conditions and in the presence of radiofrequency spillover effect. Our study aimed to test if the combined use of the new quasi-steady-state (QUASS) analysis and inverse CEST calculation facilitates T₁ normalization for improved CEST quantification. The CEST signal was simulated with Bloch-McConnell equations, and the apparent CEST, QUASS CEST, and the inverse CEST effects were calculated. T₁-normalized CEST effects were tested for their specificity to the underlying CEST system (i.e.

SUBMITTER: Sun PZ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8316384 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature