Accelerated DESPOT1 with variable parameters for 3D T1 brain mapping

Motivation: Driven Equilibrium Single Pulse Observation of T1 (DESPOT1) is a reliable technique for 3D T1 brain mapping based on a spoiled gradient echo sequence. However, its fixed repetition-time (TR) and bandwidth (BW) limit flexibility, resulting in long scan times. Goal(s): To accelerate DESPOT1 by introducing variable TRs, flip angles (FAs), and BWs, combined with a dictionary-based reconstruction approach. Approach: Our method involves using a DESPOT1 acquisition with optimized combinations of TRs, BWs, and FAs, coupled with dictionary-based reconstruction to achieve faster 3D-brain T1 mapping. Results: Results demonstrate an approximately 40% reduction in scan time, allowing faster 3D T1 brain mapping while maintaining accuracy. Impact: By using variable TRs, FAs, and BWs with dictionary-based reconstruction, this research improves DESPOT1 adaptability and speed, reducing scan time by 40% for 3D in-vivo T1 brain mapping and promising broader applications in research and clinical settings.