SAS
NMR Laboratory for Preclinical Research SISCO
The in vivo NMR laboratory (SK U 22016, approved by the State Veterinary and Food Administration of the Slovak Republic) is equipped with modern instrumentation and validated protocols for a wide range of MR experiments on animal models. The laboratory is part of the National Centre NMR. It features a 4.7 T Agilent/Varian tomograph, high-performance gradients, a set of specialized RF coils, and a physiological monitoring system for animals (SA Instruments). The laboratory regularly participates in research projects and has contributed to the implementation of several MR methodologies.
The laboratory specializes in in vivo NMR imaging and spectroscopy on preclinical animal models. We perform anatomical, functional, and metabolic studies, develop and test new MR sequences, optimize hardware solutions, and provide comprehensive data processing and analysis.
The laboratory includes an animal facility and equipment for safe anesthesia and perioperative procedures when working with small animals. All experiments are carried out in accordance with applicable ethical and legislative standards and approved protocols.
We offer support for research teams in experimental design, data acquisition, processing, and analysis of MR data. For more information about cooperation opportunities or booking instrument time, please contact us and we will be happy to prepare a tailored offer.
Key Parameters and Equipment
- Oxford superconducting magnet, 4.7 T, 330 mm bore
- VNMRS console (Agilent/Varian)
- 10-channel shimming coil for static field homogeneity
- 2 × 1000 W broadband linear amplifiers for RF power
- Gradient coils with performance up to 400 mT/m (inner diameter 125 mm)
- Pulse shape generator for creating excitation pulses of various shapes
- Eddy current compensation
- Module for monitoring physiological functions of experimental animals
- Set of volume and surface coils for rats and mice
Low-Field MRI Laboratory for Musculoskeletal Imaging
The laboratory is equipped with an ESAOTE Opera low-field tomograph (0.178 T). ESAOTE Opera is a specialized low-field MRI system intended primarily for musculoskeletal imaging. Thanks to its open design and compact layout, it enables convenient and rapid imaging of the shoulder, knee, ankle, wrist, hand, and foot, making it suitable for both clinical and research applications in orthopedics and rehabilitation.
Key Parameters
- Magnet: permanent, approximately 0.18 T (0.178 T)
- Bore diameter: approximately 24 cm
- Ergonomics: open design and low access height for easy patient positioning and rapid setup
Laboratory of the Experimental Whole-Body Tomograph TMR-96
TMR-96 is a low-field experimental MR tomograph developed at the Institute of Measurement Science. The system uses a resistive magnet with a field strength of 0.1 T and a TECMAG control console. It was designed as a flexible platform for research on relaxation phenomena, development of imaging sequences, and testing of new low-field NMR methods. TMR-96 played an important role in shaping MR technology research at the institute and represents a significant milestone in the history of in-house tomograph development.
Key Parameters
- Magnet 0.1 T – resistive whole-body magnet manufactured by BEZ Bratislava.
- Gradient system – custom design of the Institute of Measurement Science, with high-performance Techron amplifiers.
- Shimming system – 16 independent channels for fine adjustment of magnetic field homogeneity.
- RF and control electronics – 2 kW RF amplifier and Apolo NMR spectrometer.