Simultaneous and Respiratory Motion-Synchronized T2 and T2* Mapping of the Human Kidneys

Motivation: Quantitative MRI techniques, such as T2 and T2* mapping, have the potential to become important imaging biomarkers for non-invasive renal tissue assessment. However, clinical T2 and T2* mapping faces challenges posed by respiratory motion. Goal(s): This study explores the feasibility of simultaneous T2 and T2* mapping of the human kidneys with mitigated respiratory motion artifacts, using the 2in1-RARE-EPI technique. Approach: We used the distinctive acoustic noise pattern generated by the gradient coil switching during 2in1-RARE-EPI data acquisition to guide the subject to time their respiration during the scan. Results: This approach facilitates high in-plane resolution (1x1x5mm3) T2 and T2* mapping of human kidneys. Impact: Our approach for simultaneous and motion-synchronized T2 and T2* mapping of the human kidney provides a technical foundation for swift translation into the clinic and for gaining a better mechanistic understanding of renal (patho-)physiology.