moving-mri-brain-imaging

name

moving-mri-brain-imaging

description

Moving MRI (mMRI) methodology for imaging during large-scale motion. Core idea: Move subject and scanner (magnet, gradients, RF coil) as a single unit to minimize relative motion, enabling neuroimaging during movement. Demonstrates cryogen-free superconducting magnet on pneumatically actuated tilt platform. Enables vestibular function studies during natural head motion. Activation: moving MRI, mMRI, motion MRI, vestibular imaging, motion artifact MRI, naturalistic neuroimaging, superconducting magnet mobile, head motion fMRI, brain imaging during movement.

Moving MRI (mMRI) Brain Imaging

Paper

• Title: Moving MRI: Imaging a moving body with a moving magnet
• Authors: Jingting Yao, Artan Kaso, Nikhil Patel, Yin-Ching Iris Chen, Andre van der Kouwe, Daniel M. Merfeld, Jerome L. Ackerman
• arXiv: 2605.09267v1 (2026-05-10)
• Categories: physics.med-ph, eess.SY

Core Methodology

Problem

Standard MRI requires subjects to remain stationary, preventing studies of brain networks during natural movement (e.g., vestibular function, locomotion).

Key Innovation: mMRI System

Move the entire imaging system (magnet + gradients + RF coil) together with the subject:

• Compact cryogen-free superconducting magnet — no liquid helium dependency
• Pneumatically actuated tilt mechanism — moves the entire system as a unit
• Minimizes relative motion between subject and scanner during movement
• Maintains imaging during repetitive tilting motion

Experimental Validation

• Phantom scans during motion — characterized tilt-induced field shifts
• In vivo rat brain scans during repetitive tilting
• Partially reduced motion and field-shift artifacts