Evaluation of Intra Organ Sodium Levels by Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The investigators aim to implement an innovative imaging tool for detection of sodium level changes in-vivo with a clinical magnetic resonance (MR) scanner system. Conventionally, MR imaging (MRI) is performed with the use of proton imaging. Nevertheless, detection of other nuclei such as sodium (23Na) are possible with dedicated radio frequency sequences and radio frequency antennas tuned to the lower radio frequency of sodium. Non-invasive detection of sodium level changes has great potential as a precursor of organ deficiency and possible organ failure. This project seeks to determine a robust method for detection and characterization of sodium levels with MRI. The sodium levels of the kidneys are known to change throughout the day. Therefore, an evaluation of the kidney circadian sodium level variation is performed. In the proposed project, the investigators will scan two groups divided into two separate studies: Healthy controls for optimization of imaging (n = 5, scanned twice) Healthy controls for comparison of circadian variation (n = 10, scanned triple on one day) Sodium MRI could greatly improve the understanding and diagnostic capabilities of several medical conditions. If successful, the proposed project will serve as the groundwork for future clinical studies.