CEST perspectives for human brain applications at 11.7 T

Motivation: High magnetic field CEST imaging presents unique opportunities for clinical applications development. Goal(s): To investigate the potential of human brain CEST imaging on the 11.7 T scanner using tailored parallel transmission CEST pulses and compare performances with those of 7 T. Approach: 7 T and 11.7 T B1+ maps were acquired on a realistic human head phantom and pTx CEST pulses were designed for a targeted B1+ value under different energy management strategies. Results: At 11.7 T, the optimized CEST pulses exhibit more inhomogeneity than at 7 T. pTx and VOPs are highly beneficial, with best homogeneity obtained for hydroxyl-weighted maps. Impact: This study explores the potential of using the 11.7 T scanner for human brain CEST applications, addressing B1+ inhomogeneities and SAR compliance. It marks a first step toward clinical evaluation of CEST at magnetic fields higher than 7 T.