Abstract:

Magnetic Resonance Elastography (MRE) is a method to estimate biomechanical properties of soft tissues by recording shear wave propagation using MR imaging. The wave excitation is produced by an external actuator and the properties are inversely calculated based on the wave equation. Biomechanical properties of brain tissue, i.e., viscoelastic properties, can be estimated. They are closely related to the growth, aging, and disease of brain. This review first introduces the theoretical background of MRE, followed by the physical meaning of the viscoelastic parameters and wave equations used for inversion. Scanning protocols for MRE, along with a specific example focusing on brain MRE, are also described. The paper presents various clinical applications of brain MRE, with a specific emphasis on brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases. The use of viscoelastic properties as biomarkers for basic scientific research, disease diagnosis, and prognosis is discussed. We further highlight the current trends in brain MRE research, covering both technical and clinical aspects, for the future of neuroscience research and clinical applications.

Key words: Magnetic Resonance Elastography, Brain tumor, Neurodegenerative Disease, Viscoelasticity, Biomarker