This Unit focuses on development and application of state-of-the-art magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and imaging (MRI) technologies. The Unit has access to a 7 Tesla and a 3 Tesla whole-body spectrometer for research on human subjects as well as an 11.7 Tesla vertical widebore spectrometer for both in vivo and in vitro studies of small rodents. The high field strength magnets allow dramatic improvement in resolution and sensitivity for MRS and MRI measurements while presenting unique technical challenges. These technical challenges are addressed using novel design and implementation of RF probes, RF pulses and RF/gradient pulse sequences as well as sophisticated data analysis methods.

      Using high-field MRS and MRI methods this Unit also performs basic research on neurotransmission and neurotransmitter metabolism. In particular, in vivo assessment of glutamate and GABA neurotransmission and metabolism is used to explore the function and modulation of these neurotransmitters in the brain under a variety of conditions. The aim is to further our understanding of the role of these neurotransmitters and other important metabolites in psychiatric disorders.

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