ASL Perfusion Technology Available
Siemens collaborated with researchers from the University of Pennsylvania to develop an arterial spin labeling application (ASL). ASL provides views of cerebral blood flow; particularly functional physiology and perfusion activity in the brain.
ASL uses magnetic resonance technology combined with water from arterial blood as a contrast agent. The application is intended for brain imaging.
ASL is an exciting development for neuroscience applications because current imaging techniques are both highly invasive and require injection of contrast agents. Additionally, studies were often completed with imaging modalities that entailed radiation exposure.
These characteristics limit the patient population eligible to undergo such studies. And utilization of a naturally occurring substance for contrast purposes is a fascinating innovation.
Siemens is the first company to develop ASL for commercial use, as described in their press release. But competitors will certainly be gunning to replicate such with their own applications.
Related story: Combined Imaging with MRI and PET
June 5, 2007 Related topics: Imaging, Diagnostic, Radiology, Psychiatry & Neurology