A team of researchers from Stanford University, the Mātai Medical Research Institute, and their collaborators have published an innovative post-processing MRI algorithm, 3D quantitative amplified MRI (3D q-aMRI). This new method shows promise for quantifying brain movements with a scan time of just 2 minutes. 

Building on the principles of amplified MRI (aMRI), which was developed by Dr. Samantha Holdsworth, Dr. Mahdi Salmani Rahimi, and Itamar Terem at Stanford University, this technique magnifies the small motions of the brain caused by the force of blood with each heartbeat. These movements are so minute that they are virtually undetectable on regular MRI scans. The amplification and quantification of these motions can allow the detection of anomalies in brain motion that could indicate diseases or disorders obstructing brain function or blocking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. 

Itamar Terem from Stanford, highlights the technique’s potential, stating, ‘The precision of 3D q-aMRI in quantifying tiny brain motions could assist with the diagnosis of various brain disorders. Since the method relies on standard clinical MRI – which is fast and high resolution – it is highly accessible and easy to integrate into existing clinical workflows.'” 

Dr Samantha Holdsworth, Mātai Research Director and Associate Professor at the University of Auckland, emphasised the technology’s potential, stating, “The technology shows promise in the diagnosis of conditions like Chiari Malformation and hydrocephalus. It could also have applications in cerebrovascular diseases, which affect the blood vessels in the brain.”  

The team are performing additional studies using this technology for conditions such as concussion and dementia, as well as developing a non-invasive method to measure brain pressure. 

The team are working alongside Mātai-based GE Healthcare scientist Dr Hari Kumar to make the amplified MRI research package more widely available for testing the method across MRI scanners globally.