Optimization and validation of Creatine- and Glutamate-CEST weighted imaging in the human brain at 7T

Amine chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) is highly sensitive for imaging metabolites in vivo. However, it lacks specificity. We aimed to develop and validate optimal CEST protocols to image creatine and glutamate in the human brain at 7T. Simulations were used to define optimal acquisition parameters, followed by in vitro validation. The optimal B1rms and total saturation (tsat) parameters were determined for creatine (B1rms = 2.5μT & tsat = 1500ms) and glutamate (B1rms = 3.5μT & tsat = 1000ms). These protocols were then used in healthy volunteers to investigate the correlation of glutamate- and creatine-weighted CEST with magnetic resonance spectroscopy results.