Magnetic resonance development at CENTUS

Developing open source, novel tools for use in future TUS clinical studies and progress research into therapeutic ultrasound
MRI scanner at BRIC in use by CENTUS
In collaboration with University Hospitals Â鶹´«Ã½ NHS Trust, the University of Nottingham and Stanford University, we are developing and refining magnetic resonance acoustic radiation force imaging (MR-ARFI). This is a highly promising technique for non-invasively verifying targeting accuracy and assessing the exposure of low-intensity transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation.
 

Magnetic field motion

MR-ARFI uses magnetic field motion encoding gradients to visualise the MR phase changes generated by microscopic displacements at the ultrasound focus.
Using long ultrasound pulses in the application of a magnetic field gradient, MR-ARFI encodes the displacement of tissue into the phase of the MR image. It visualises the quasi-static displacement of tissue during the ultrasound pulse, rather than the shear wave after the pulse. It can provide a low-temperature rise method to locate the focal spot and calibrate the beam intensity, with the potential to evaluate and improve focusing.
MR-ARFI image showing acoustic simulation in transcranial ultrasound stimulation

Optimising MR-ARFI

Challenges for use of MR-ARFI in the human central nervous system include the distortion created by the motion of the subject, and insufficient signal-to-noise ratio at low ultrasound pressures.
The research team aim to optimise MR-ARFI as a tool to guide transcranial ultrasound stimulation therapeutics.
Simulated focused ultrasound beam (red/blue) and location of magnetic resonance spectroscopy measurement (white square) overlaid on a structural magnetic resonance image (MRI)

Centre for Therapeutic Ultrasound

One of the most advanced and comprehensive transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) research centres in the world, led by Professor Elsa Fouragnan – a leading authority on brain stimulation research in the UK and recognised internationally.
The only centre that is investigating TUS safety, biomechanics and undertaking clinical studies, our multidisciplinary approach combined with working across several research labs and patient facilities is truly unique.
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