Advancing technologies in 1H and 31P MR spectroscopy in the human brain at 7 Tesla

This dissertation focuses on MRI research at ultra-high field strength (7 Tesla) and the development of advanced measurement techniques to study the human brain. An innovative RF coil was designed that can measure both proton and phosphorus nuclei with high sensitivity, enabling accurate brain measurements within clinically feasible scan times.

The research also demonstrates that a specific spectroscopy method is reliable and reproducible across different MRI systems, representing an important step toward standardization and broader clinical application. In addition, signal enhancement (NOE) was shown to improve measurement quality and reproducibility without introducing extra variability.

Using these improved techniques, the study investigated how brain energy metabolism responds to visual stimulation. No significant changes in energy reserves were observed, suggesting that these reserves are either minimally utilized or rapidly replenished.

Overall, the findings contribute to a better understanding of brain metabolism and offer new opportunities for future research and clinical applications.