Effects of the interaction between ferric iron and L-dopa melanin on T1 and T2 relaxation times determined by magnetic resonance imaging

Magn Reson Med. 1992 Jul;26(1):40-5. doi: 10.1002/mrm.1910260105.

Abstract

T1 and T2 relaxation times of agar phantoms containing L-dopa melanin and Fe3+ were measured under MRI conditions. Fe3+ shortened T1 and T2 relaxation times. Melanin influenced relaxation times only in the presence of Fe3+; thus, contrast in MR images of the basal ganglia may depend upon levels of both paramagnetic iron and neuromelanin.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Basal Ganglia / anatomy & histology*
  • Ferric Compounds*
  • Humans
  • Levodopa*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Melanins*
  • Models, Structural

Substances

  • Ferric Compounds
  • Melanins
  • neuromelanin
  • Levodopa