Quantitative magnetization transfer imaging techniques and applications.

Abstract

This dissertation discusses magnetization transfer effects in magnetic resonance imaging and the development and applications of quantitative magnetization transfer imaging techniques. Specifically, the magnetization transfer effects in single slice spoiled gradient echo imaging are investigated; state-of-the-art quantitative magnetization transfer imaging techniques are presented and compared; the sensitivity and specificity of quantitative magnetization imaging are tested and demonstrated by imaging various animal models with central nervous system diseases.