The role of susceptibility weighted imaging in functional MRI

The development of functional brain magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been a boon for neuroscientists and radiologists alike. It provides for fundamental information on brain function and better diagnostic tools to study disease. In this paper, we will review some of the early concepts in high resolution gradient echo imaging with a particular emphasis on susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) and MR angiography (MRA). We begin with the history of our own experience in this area, followed by a discussion of the role of high resolution in studying the vasculature of the brain and how this relates to the BOLD (blood oxygenation level dependent) signal. We introduce the role of SWI and susceptibility mapping (SWIM) in fMRI and close with recommendations for future high resolution experiments.