Events Calendar

New Directions in MRI: High Field Imaging, Cell-Tracking, & Multinuclear Studies

Speaker: Priti Balchandani, Ph.D., Radiological Sciences Laboratory, Stanford University

Talk Title: New Directions in MRI: High Field Imaging, Cell-Tracking, & Multinuclear Studies

Abstract: This talk will focus on the design of innovative radio frequency (RF) pulses and pulse sequences that harness the power of high-field magnets anexploit new contrast mechanisms in order to enable novel applications of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). I will present engineering solutions for MR imaging and spectroscopy at high magnetic fields such as 7 Tesla (7T). Beyond higher resolution images that elucidate finer anatomical features, high-field MR offers greater spectral resolution for spectroscopic imaging, new and enhanced contrast mechanisms and improved detection of nuclei other than protons that are essential to cell processes. Unfortunately, conventional MR imaging sequences, which work well at 1.5T and 3T, are not designed to handle some of the physical and hardware issues that emerge at 7T. I will present techniques that exploit the benefits offered by 7T magnets for neuroimaging applications by overcoming the limitations associated with their operation. Clinical value of these high-field techniques will be discussed, with a particular focus on their application to imaging epilepsy. Finally, I will focus on some creative pulse and pulse sequence designs for nontraditional MR applications such as multinuclear imaging and stem cell tracking.

Biography: Priti Balchandani, PhD, is a Research Associate in the Radiological Sciences Laboratory (RSL) at Stanford University. Her research is focused on novel RF pulse and pulse sequence design for human MR imaging and spectroscopy. She has been particularly interested in exploiting the power of high-field MR magnets to visualize the brain in unprecedented detail. Her work on overcoming some of the main limitations of operating at high magnetic fields has resulted in several first authored publications and patents as well as selection as a finalist for the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) 2008 Young Investigator Award. Dr. Balchandani is the recipient of a K99/R00 NIH Pathway to Independence Award from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke for her grant entitled "High Resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy of Epilepsy at 7T." She was also named a Junior Fellow of the ISMRM, an honor awarded to young researchers of outstanding quality and promise, with a significant potential for helping the Society achieve its mission. Dr. Balchandani received her BS in computer engineering at the University of Waterloo and her PhD in electrical engineering at Stanford University.



Host: Prof. Krishna Nayak

Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 248

Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

Contact: Talyia Veal