Dependence of R1 on Tissue Microstructure: A Group Study of 100 Subjects

Martina F. Callaghan¹, Antoine Lutti¹, Siawoosh Mohammadi¹, Nikolaus Weiskopf¹

Quantitative MRI aims to produce measurements of diagnostic value that are independent of scanner and acquisition protocol. Biophysical models can provide validation for these markers and bring us a step closer to accessing important biological parameters in vivo that are normally only available post mortem. We explored the validity of using quantitative transverse relaxation rate and magnetisation transfer maps as markers for macromolecular and iron content in a linear model of longitudinal relaxation rate in 100 subjects. The linear model fit with a high Pearson coefficient and exhibited stability in the coefficients across the large cohort.