The cell volume fraction (CVF), derived from tissue sodium concentration as measured by quantitative sodium MR imaging, in the human brain is high (~0.82) and maintained with normal aging despite decreases in brain volume. The gender difference (females: 0.807±0.009; males: 0.827±0.011, p<0.001) is also maintained over normal aging. This difference is posited to reflect the energy saving from higher CVF required for the larger male brain with higher number of neurons and synapses compared to female brains.
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