(MRC DTP) Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging of myocardial metabolism

Magnetic resonance imaging provides a wide range of methods to detect and monitor cardiac disease. In addition to non-invasive imaging of cardiac anatomy, quantitative MRI methods allow functional information to be probed, allowing the detection and assessment of tissue viability, fibrosis and ischemia [1-3].

The heart has high energy requirements to support contractile motion and abnormalities in cardiac energetics are associated with a range of cardiac disorders. The compound creatine plays a key role in cardiac energy metabolism and its presence may be detected using a new quantitative MRI method called chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging [4]. This technique could potentially offer a unique non-invasive probe of cardiac metabolic function, providing insights into mechanisms of disease and the potential for earlier diagnosis in a range of cardiac conditions. The aim of this project is to develop and evaluate creatine CEST and to apply the technique in a clinical setting. MRI pulse sequences will be developed and implemented on a clinical MRI scanner and tested and evaluated in healthy volunteers. Methods of analysis of the MRI signal for quantification of creatine will be investigated and validated using data acquired in vivo and using in vitro samples of known creatine concentration. The optimised method will then be applied in a clinical setting to allow the sensitivity to detecting alterations in cardiac energetics in disease to be assessed.

This is an interdisciplinary project, which combines basic MR physics with clinical medicine. It provides an opportunity to develop skills in MR physics, pulse sequence design and implementation, image and data processing, clinical cardiac MRI and cardiovascular biology. It would suit an individual with a background in one of the physical sciences interested in applying these skills to biomedical problems to make a real clinical impact.