Prospective motion correction system for 7T Terra

Project summary Motion remains a significant issue for MRI and MRS, often resulting in suboptimal or unusable data. Motion is especially problematic at ultra-high magnetic fields (7T and above). Such high fields are typically used to push the limits of spatial resolution, rendering motion artifacts even more apparent. The aim of this proposal is to purchase a second-generation optical camera system from KinetiCor Inc (CA, USA) for prospective, i.e. real-time, motion correction for human brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS). This new camera system will be installed on our new Siemens 7T Terra MRI scanner at the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR). The 7T Terra is a high-performance scanner with advanced RF capabilities yet capable of routine clinical operation. It is the first 7T MR scanner approved by the FDA for clinical scans. Currently CMRR possesses two first-generation cameras for prospective motion correction in use on other scanners. However, these first-generation cameras have significant limitations that have prevented widespread adoption at CMRR. Our goal is first, to provide a dedicated instrument for prospective motion correction for the new 7T Terra, and second, to overcome the limitations of the previous generation system, widening the range of NIH-funded projects that can take advantage of prospective motion correction to improve data quality and spatial resolution. With the flexibility, speed and ease of use of this second-generation KinetiCor system, we expect it to be embraced by many users at CMRR to harness the benefits of high magnetic fields in clinical and neuroscience research. This will facilitate translation of technical and methodological developments at ultra-high field into clinical research studies of populations that are prone to motion, such as children, subjects with movement disorders, or the elderly, and ultimately into clinical practice.