A DEAL to bring one of the most powerful scanners in the world to Scotland has been signed.

The £10m agreement will allow doctors and scientists in Glasgow to examine the human body in greater resolution than ever before.

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine - known as an advanced 7-Tesla - will be installed at the South Glasgow University Hospital next year.

It will offer researchers the chance to learn more about a range of health problems, initially focusing on brain diseases such as dementia, Parkinson's, epilepsy, strokes and multiple sclerosis.

A smaller scanning machine, known as a 3T, is also included in the deal drawn up between Glasgow University, health board NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde and engineering giant Siemens.

Professor Anna Dominiczak, head of the College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences at Glasgow University, said: "These systems will provide us with best-in-the-world clinical imaging capability and significantly enhance the quality of research carried out in Glasgow.

"This initiative is testament to the strength of the partnership between academia, the NHS and industry that we have in the city. By locating the scanners at the South Glasgow University Hospital we are bringing advanced technology closer to patients, making it arguably the most accessible imaging capability of its kind in the world."

Aileen MacLennan, director of diagnostics for NHSGGC, said: "The patients of Greater Glasgow and Clyde currently benefit from access to 15 NHS-funded MR systems, including 3T scan capability.

"The addition of two advanced scanners to this imaging portfolio is very welcome. The enhanced image resolution available will provide opportunities for us to better understand and manage disease processes."