ssessment of the repeatability and stability of NODDI diffusion modelling using phantom and in vivo acquisitions.
Ricchi M., Axford A., McGing J., Shinozaki A., Yeung K., Birkhozeler S., Mills R., Zaccagna F., Lewis A., Rider O., Tyler D., Testa C., Grist J.
Motivation: The NODDI diffusion-MRI model shows promising results in characterising brain microstructure and capturing neurological disease-related changes. However, the NODDI model lacks validation, limiting its clinical application. Goal(s): The goal is to validate the diffusion MRI NODDI model, assessing its consistency over time and addressing the need for robust methods in clinical research. Approach: By scanning several times phantoms simulating brain-restricted diffusion and healthy volunteers with the same acquisition protocol, we meticulously assess NODDI's stability over time and in the presence of magnetic gradient coil heating. Results: The study confirms the NODDI model's exceptional consistency and stability, establishing its credibility for future clinical applications. Impact: The study confirms the reliability and stability of the NODDI model in assessing brain microstructure over time. This has significant implications for monitoring neurological disease progression and may lead to standardised MRI calibration protocols for collaborative research and clinical applications.