Large-bore Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The BIC houses two research dedicated large-bore MRI scanners: a 3T Siemens Prisma and a 7T system (2018). Both systems are fully equipped for brain and spine research imaging and spectroscopy studies. We have also the capacity to train and image fully-awake non-human primates. Basic physiological monitoring and comprehensive visual and auditory stimulus delivery systems are available to all researchers. Our team has experience conducting a wide range of studies for all researchers (from MRI-novice to experts), including with young children participants and experiments requiring full anesthesia.

Assistance from highly-qualified personnel

Researchers conducting MRI scans at the BIC are supported by an experienced team of three clinically certified MRI technologists.

The team provides support in configuring stimulus presentation and subject monitoring equipment, in parallel with subject placement in the scanner and its operation. If needed they can also perform injections of contrast agent, blood draws, or carry out other clinical tests related to the imaging protocol (blood pressure, other). Our techs are also experienced in performing MRI of children, patients with reduced mobility, and individuals under sedation or general anesthesia. In addition, they have extensive expertise in carrying out complex animal imaging protocols with full disinfection of the MRI suite afterward. For industry sponsored clinical trials, the technologists can manage all documentation related to the study protocol and imaging sessions.

3T Prisma

• Receive coils
  • Spine coil
  • Large Flex coil
  • Small Flex coil
  • Knee 15-channel coil
  • Head and Neck 20-channel coil
  • Head 32-channel coil
  • Head and Neck 64-channel coil
  • Marmoset 16-channel coil
• Peripherals
   

7T Terra

• Transmit and receive coils
  • Small Flex coil
  • Knee 1 transmit-28 receive coil
  • Head 1 transmit-32 receive channel coil
  • Head 8 transmit-32 receive channel coil
• Peripherals
   

1.5T

• Mock scanner with head coils and patient table
   

Equipment and resources for functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

• SR14 and SR15 ear insert high quality sound delivery system by Sensimetrics
• Binocular eye tracking with the SR Research Systems Eyelink 1000
• Current Designs fiber Optic Response Pad system for subject feedback including a variety of handheld button boxes, a joystick and a force gripper
• Propixx DLP LED projector for vision research at 7T with a native resolution of 1920 x 1080, and refresh rates up to 500 Hz by VPixx Technologies
• Infocus LP840 LCD projector with a native resolution of 1024 x 768 for fMRI visual stimulation at 3T
• Biopak M100 module for subject biofeedback