Towards Genuine Three-dimensional Diffusion Imaging with Second Order Gradient Moment Nulling

Motivation: While 3D acquisition has the advantages of achieving high resolution and signal-to-noise ratio and has been established for most sequences, diffusion imaging, has predominantly adhered to 2D acquisition or partial 3D such as multi-slab acquisition for over 50 years. Goal(s): We aim to bring diffusion imaging to the next era by implementing a genuine 3D diffusion imaging sequence. Approach: The sequence was implemented using gradient moment nulling and 3D EPI acquisition and basic reconstruction methods. Results: Whole brain 3D diffusion imaging was achieved at isotropic sub-millimeter resolution and a practical scan time. Impact: This work liberates diffusion imaging from 2D or partial 3D acquisition to true 3D acquisition.