Imaging Brain Perfusion Using Time-encoded PCASL and Hyperpolarized [13C,15N2]Urea MRI in Healthy Volunteers

Motivation: Understanding brain perfusion is crucial for assessing several neuropathology and treatment responses. Goal(s): With the help of 4 healthy subjects, this study investigated an approach by combining ASL with hyperpolarized 13C-urea MRI, aimed at providing complementary brain perfusion assessments, capturing arterial, venous, and tissue perfusion information for enhanced brain vasculature imaging. Approach: Dynamic urea imaging data were analyzed for arterial and venous flow, while ASL measurements provided tissue perfusion assessments. Results: This novel study successfully imaged tissue perfusion along with arterial and venous perfusion, validating the combined approach's efficacy in enhancing vascular insights and providing a detailed cerebral perfusion profile. Impact: The combined hyperpolarized [13C,15N2]urea and ASL MRI can provide a multifaceted assessment of brain arterial flow, venous drainage, and tissue perfusion that may enhance diagnostic capabilities and evaluation in clinical settings.