An Advanced (k,T)-acquisition scheme to largely improve sensitivity and resolution for dynamic deuterium MRSI application in human brain at 7T

Motivation: Further improving the spatial resolution and sensitivity of human brain deuterium MRSI (DMRSI). Goal(s): To develop an advanced (k,T)-acquisition scheme and processing pipeline to improve the SNR and resolution of dynamic DMRSI at 7T. Approach: We designed and implemented the new DMRSI pulse sequence on an FDA-approved 7T clinical scanner equipped with a 4-channel 2H-1H dual-frequency transreceiver head array coil; evaluated and compared the new (k,T)-CSI sequence and the FSW-CSI sequence performing high-resolution dynamic DMRSI. Results: The new DMRSI method significantly improves the SNR and spatial resolution and achieved better contrast between human GM, WM and CSF. Impact: We developed an advanced DMRSI method for high-resolution and high-fidelity whole-brain DMRSI in humans at 7T. It enhances our ability to study neuroenergetics and metabolic reprograming associated with brain tumors and other neurological disorders, and provides clinical value for diagnosis.