Visualization of Human Brain Cortical Layers Using Quantitative Parameter Mapping on a 3 Tesla Scanner

Motivation: To observe the cortical layer in detail using MRI. Goal(s): To evaluate the visualization of cortical layers in humans using quantitative parameter mapping (QPM)-MRI. Approach: Using T1, T2, and R1·R2* derived from QPM-MRI, each measured value in the motor cortex and the putamen was compared. Additionally, the line profile curves of the cortex for R1, R2* and R1·R2* images were plotted. Results: There are significant differences between the motor cortex and the putamen in T1 and T2* (P < 0.05). Visualization using R1·R2* leads to emphasis on the susceptibility effect of iron and myelin in addition to T1 differences. Impact: Visualization using R1·R2* derived from QMP-MRI leads to emphasis on the susceptibility effect of iron and myelin in addition to T1 differences based on myelin content in the cortex.