An optimization scheme was developed for gradient echo imaging using a
half-birdcage RF coil at 7 T to obtain maximal contrast between gray
and white matter in the spinal cord of rodents. This optimization was
combined with microimaging techniques to obtain in vivo pixel sizes of
78 x 78 x 700 mu m. These techniques can be implemented in an in vivo
study to investigate the myelin structure within the white matter of
the rodent spinal cord.