Translating 19F-based cellular MRI from 9.4T to 3T: Feasibility of future clinical applications

A limitation of ¹⁹F-based MRI is low sensitivity; consequently, many studies have been performed at high field strengths with relatively long scan times (ie. 30 minutes). Because of this, human applications have seemed unreasonable. Here, we investigate the feasibility of translating ¹⁹F MRI from 9.4T to a 3T clinical scanner. Upon optimization of 3T scan parameters, ¹⁹F image quality was similar and ¹⁹F spin quantification was not different to a scan performed at 9.4T. Additionally, a 30 second scan produced the same ¹⁹F spin quantification as a 30 minute scan at 3T. These findings show promise for future clinical applications.