Uzi Eliav1, Michal Komlosh2, 3, Peter J. Basser2, Gil Navon1
1School of Chemistry, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; 2STBB/PPITS/NICHD/NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States; 3CNRM and Henry Jackson Foundation, Bethesda, MD, United States
In the present work it is shown that by combining the double quantum filtered, magnetization transfer and the ultra-short TE MRI methods it is possible to obtain contrast between tissue compartments based on the following factors: (a) the residual dipolar coupling interaction within the macromolecules, which depends on their structure, (b) residual dipolar interactions within the water molecules, and (c) the magnetization exchange rate between macromolecules and water. The technique is demonstrated in rat tail specimen where the collagenous tissue, such as tendons and the annulus pulposus of the disc are highlighted in these images, and their macromolecular properties along with those of bones and muscles can be characterized.
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