Attempts to optimize the magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) obtained from spoiled gradient echo MRI have focused on the properties of the magnetization transfer pulse. In particular, continuous-wave models do not explicitly account for the effects of excitation and relaxation on the MTR. In this work, these were modeled by an approximation of free relaxation between the radiofrequency pulses and of an instantaneous saturation event describing the magnetization transfer pulse. An algebraic approximation of the signal equation can be obtained for short pulse repetition time and small flip angles. This greatly facilitated the mathematical treatment and understanding of the MTR. The influence of inhomogeneous radiofrequency fields could be readily incorporated. The model was verified on the human brain in vivo at 3 T by variation of flip angle and pulse repetition time. The corresponding range in MTR was similar to that observed by a 4-fold increase of magnetization transfer pulse power. Choice of short pulse repetition time and larger flip angles improved the MTR contrast and reduced the influence of radiofrequency inhomogeneity. Optimal contrast is obtained around an MTR of 50%, and noise progression is reduced when a high reference signal is obtained.
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