Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg unveils the 7-Tesla MRI machine in Europe
Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg launched Europe’s 7-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine March 22, taking place in the presence of the Minister of Science for Saxony-Anhalt, Dr Armin Willingmann. MAGNETOM Terra.X Impulse Edition reportedly enables brain functions and structures to be mapped and measured on site with precision.
“With the high capability of the unique new MRI machine, we will, together with the neuroscientists in Magdeburg, be able to take a more in-depth look into the human brain. In the future, it will be possible to differentiate structures and functions within the cortex, that is the outer layer of the brain that contains our neurons in a layer only 3 millimeters thick, and expand our understanding of the brain and also of diseases,” explains the spokesperson of the Center for Advanced Medical Engineering (CAME), Dr Oliver Speck.
With the inauguration of the MAGNETOM Terra.X Impulse Edition, the Magdeburg University is reportedly only the second site in the world to have an MRI machine of this strength. Another machine is located at the University of California, Berkeley.
“Magdeburg as a location is already synonymous with enormous expertise in the field of neuroscientific imaging, including on the international stage. The new MRI machine will again raise the corresponding research in the state capital to a new level and provide the impetus for innovation whilst raising its profile enormously and strengthening the whole of Magdeburg as a venue for research in terms of international competition,” commented Willingmann.
The new equipment is part of CAME at the University of Magdeburg and, effective immediately, will be available for research purposes as joint infrastructure, known as core facilities, to institutions outside of the university, such as the Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), the German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), and STIMULATE, the medical research campus.
“By developing and providing joint research infrastructure, our core facilities, the university has become an important partner in pioneering cutting edge research for scientists both in the city and also for interested parties from across the globe,” commented President, Jens Strackeljan, PhD.
According to Dr Arthur Kaindl, head of Magnetic Resonance Imaging at Siemens Healthineers, the inauguration of the high-performance MRI machine represents a milestone in the long-term partnership between Siemens and the ultra-high-field research facilities in Magdeburg. “The Magnetom Terra.X Impulse Edition, a 7-Tesla MRI machine that is optimized for head examinations, will set new standards in neuronal research. Due to its high field strength and strong gradient performance, the scanner will be ideal for more clearly detecting the finest structures in the brain. By introducing AI-based algorithms in ultra-high-field technology for the first time, we are accelerating the imaging process and simultaneously improving image quality.”
