Dynamic T1 functional MRI examinations with use of blood pool contrast agent--an approach to optimization of the technique.

The goal was to optimize dynamic T1 imaging for functional MRI (fMRI) examinations. For each of the 10 healthy subjects T1 3D gradient echo sequence (GRE) sequences were provided immediately after administration of blood pool contrast agent then every 2 h when subjects performed block finger tapings. Dynamic T1 fMRI is sensitive to detect cortical activations up to 6 h after BPCA administration. fMRI should be conducted within 2 h of CA administration, which is enough time for a typical fMRI experiment procedure.