This Lab houses a Varian magnetic resonance imaging system, which is controlled by a state-of-the-art Varian Inova console. This instrument has full microimaging capabilities. The MRI includes an Oxford 4.7 Tesla, 40cm bore magnet (accessible diameter is 32.4cm), with a complete set of gradients and 15 room-temperature computer-controlled shims. High-performance gradients custom manufactured for us by Magnex Scientific for microimaging and microlocalized are in routine use. These gradients are powered with Techron amplifiers and are capable of achieving 80G/cm (800mT/m). The RF and acquisition systems are entirely broadband from 5-210MHz.
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A 4.7 Tesla Varian magnetic resonance imaging system |
Specialized equipment for cardiac mouse cardiac MR imaging. For cardiovascular MRI of mice, additional equipment includes a dedicated fiber-optic system for ECG and temperature monitoring, custom-built RF coils (Doty Scientific), an isoflurane delivery system, and a system for circulating hot water to maintain animal core temperatures.
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| Partial views of the MR control room. |
Also, the lab has dedicated image analysis software for computing mouse cardiac volumes, ejection fractions, and intra-myocardial strain.
