In fMRI studies, contrast-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution can be improved by using ultra-high magnetic fields. Traditionally, fMRI experiments are performed using the Blood Oxygen Level Dependent (BOLD) technique based on echo planar imaging (EPI) acquisition strategies. When using EPI, certain unwanted effects such as image blurring, distortions and signal voids enhance as the magnetic field strength increases. In the first part of my talk I will present the use of a different acquisition scheme, spatiotemporal encoding (SPEN), which has the potential to improve image quality, offering an attractive alternative to EPI for UHF fMRI.
In the second part of my presentation I will focus on two other approaches to imaging brain function: Diffusion fMRI (DfMRI) and Manganese Enhanced MRI (MEMRI). Specifically, I will present studies which highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each of these techniques with respect to BOLD.
