Diffusion-weighted Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer Imaging at 7T Human MRI

Abstract

CEST is a useful method to diagnose tumor or stroke, but lacks physical information such as compartments with different diffusivities. In this study, we developed a new diffusion-weighted steady-state CEST sequence using 3D EPI at 7T. The technique was tested in phantom and human brain, and the preliminary CEST-weighted apparent diffusion coefficient maps provided both CEST and diffusion information. Further study is required to clearly understand the signal source and the potential as a new biomarker.