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Abstract #3042

Optimized, Unequal Pulse Spacing in Multiple Echo Sequences Improves Refocusing in Magnetic Resonance

Warren S. Warren1, Rosa Tamara Branca2

1Chemistry/CMBI, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States; 2Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States


A recent quantum computing paper analytically derived optimal pulse spacings for a multiple spin echo sequence which differ dramatically from the conventional, equal pulse spacing of a Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) sequence. Here we show that this UDD sequence has advantages for MR of tissue, where diffusion in microstructured environments leads to fluctuating fields on a range of different timescales. Both in excised tissue and in a live mouse tumor model, optimal UDD sequences produce different contrast than do CPMG sequences, with substantial enhancements in most regions. This provides a new source of endogenous contrast and enhances sequences which are currently T2-limited.