Moving MRI: Imaging a moving body with a moving magnet

TL;DR

This paper introduces Moving MRI (mMRI), a novel system that allows imaging during large-scale motion by synchronously moving the magnet and scanner, enabling studies of motion-related brain functions.

Contribution

The authors develop a proof-of-concept platform that moves the MRI magnet with the subject, reducing motion artifacts and opening new possibilities for naturalistic motion studies.

Findings

Successfully imaged rat brains during tilting motion.

Characterized and partially reduced tilt-induced artifacts.

Demonstrated feasibility of imaging during large-scale movement.

Abstract

Current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires the subject to remain stationary to limit motion artifacts and avoid unwanted field-induced brain stimulation. However, imaging during large-scale motion could enable studies in which motion itself is central. One example is the study of brain networks involved in vestibular function, which senses head motion. Here, we demonstrate Moving MRI (mMRI), a system that enables imaging during large-scale motion by moving the subject and scanner together to minimize relative motion. We implemented a proof-of-concept platform using a compact, cryogen-free superconducting magnet mounted on a pneumatically actuated tilt mechanism that moves the magnet, gradients, and RF coil as a unit during scanning. Phantom and in vivo rat brain scans were acquired during repetitive tilting. We characterized artifacts arising from tilt-induced field shifts and residual subject-scanner motion, and partially reduced these effects. mMRI enables imaging during large-scale movement and may broaden access to naturalistic vestibular paradigms while providing a foundation for future human systems.