Six-fold enhancement in spatial-resolution of Pseudo-Continuous Arterial Spin Labeling Perfusion Mapping using a Cryogenic Coil at 9.4T

High resolution CBF mapping using ASL can benefit multitude applications, yet its spatiotemporal resolution is limited in pre-clinical settings and at higher fields. To address this issue, we explored the possibility of improving the resolution of pCASL by using a cryogenic coil at 9.4T in the rat brain. Compared to the current state-of-the-art measurements, we managed to enhance the resolution of pCASL images by a factor of at least 6. The interpulse phase optimizations applied at the labelling plane are crucial for higher and stable inversion efficiency.