Towards Sequence Optimization for Multi-Compartment Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting

Motivation: Volumetric measurements of the myelin water fraction in the human brain are hampered by long acquisition times. Goal(s): Investigate the extent to which sequence optimization can improve the encoding efficiency of multi-compartment Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting. Approach: Implement different cost functions to optimize MRF sequence parameters. Validate the results with simulations, one-dimensional projection measurements in phantoms and in vivo measurements. Results: MRF sequence design has a significant influence on partial volume estimation with MRF. Optimization can yield improved tissue discrimination and more detailed myelin water fraction maps. Impact: MRF sequence design has a significant influence on partial volume estimation, yielding potential for optimization of, for example, tissue discrimination and myelin water fraction mapping. Further investigation of cost functions and validation of results is needed.