SPICY: a method for single scan rotating frame relaxometry

T (1ρ) is an NMR relaxation mode that is sensitive to low frequency molecular motions, making it an especially valuable tool in biomolecular research. Here, we introduce a new method, SPICY, for measuring T(1ρ) relaxation times. In contrast to conventional T(1ρ) experiments, in which the sequence is repeated many times to determine the T(1ρ) time, the SPICY sequence allows determination of T(1ρ) within a single scan, shortening the experiment time remarkably. We demonstrate the method using (1)H T(1ρ) relaxation dispersion experiments. Additionally, we combine the sequence with spatial encoding to produce 1D images in a single scan. We show that T(1ρ) relaxation times obtained using the single scan approach are in good agreement with those obtained using the traditional experiments.