Accelerating multiparametric quantitative MRI using self-supervised scan-specific implicit neural representation with model reinforcement

TL;DR

This paper introduces REFINE-MORE, a self-supervised deep learning framework that accelerates multiparametric quantitative MRI by combining neural representations with physics-based constraints, achieving high accuracy and efficiency.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel self-supervised, scan-specific deep learning method that integrates implicit neural representations with physics-informed model reinforcement for accelerated qMRI reconstruction.

Findings

Outperforms baseline and state-of-the-art methods in reconstruction quality.

Achieves 4x and 5x acceleration with superior accuracy.

Model adaptation improves efficiency fivefold.

Abstract

Purpose: To develop a self-supervised scan-specific deep learning framework for reconstructing accelerated multiparametric quantitative MRI (qMRI). Methods: We propose REFINE-MORE (REference-Free Implicit NEural representation with MOdel REinforcement), combining an implicit neural representation (INR) architecture with a model reinforcement module that incorporates MR physics constraints. The INR component enables informative learning of spatiotemporal correlations to initialize multiparametric quantitative maps, which are then further refined through an unrolled optimization scheme enforcing data consistency. To improve computational efficiency, REFINE-MORE integrates a low-rank adaptation strategy that promotes rapid model convergence. We evaluated REFINE-MORE on accelerated multiparametric quantitative magnetization transfer imaging for simultaneous estimation of free water spin-lattice relaxation, tissue macromolecular proton fraction, and magnetization exchange rate, using both phantom and in vivo brain data. Results: Under 4x and 5x accelerations on in vivo data, REFINE-MORE achieved superior reconstruction quality, demonstrating the lowest normalized root-mean-square error and highest structural similarity index compared to baseline methods and other state-of-the-art model-based and deep learning approaches. Phantom experiments further showed strong agreement with reference values, underscoring the robustness and generalizability of the proposed framework. Additionally, the model adaptation strategy improved reconstruction efficiency by approximately fivefold. Conclusion: REFINE-MORE enables accurate and efficient scan-specific multiparametric qMRI reconstruction, providing a flexible solution for high-dimensional, accelerated qMRI applications.