Computational EM Simulation of Microscopic Graphene-Based Electrophysiology Probe at 7T MRI: Acceleration Using a Huygens' Box-Based Approach

Motivation: Concurrent electrophysiological-fMRI acquisitions have provided important new neuroscientific data, although conventional EEG probes can pose significant data quality and RF heating-related challenges, especially at high fields. Goal(s): To investigate the compatibility and safety in the MRI environment of novel graphene-based microscopic electrophysiological probes with unsurpassed recording capability. Approach: Computational electromagnetic (EM) simulations were conducted using a Huygens' Box (HB) method to increase the efficiency and enhance the spatial resolution of multi-port methods. Results: The HB method achieved a spatial resolution of 0.0001mm (through-plane) and 0.01mm (in-plane) within practical simulation times, demonstrating acceptable SAR increase in the vicinity of the probe. Impact: This study provides evidence on the superior MR suitability of graphene-based probes compared to the current technology for concurrent EEG-fMRI acquisitions, offering the prospect of unprecedented characterization of brain activity which could lead to better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.