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Published on: October 18, 2017
Magnetic resonance imaging, microscopy, and spectroscopy of the central nervous system in experimental animals
Istvan Pirko1, Stanley Thomas Fricke, Aaron J Johnson
1University of Cincinnati, Department of Neurology, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267, USA. Istvan.Pirko@uc.edu
Abstract:
Over the last two decades, microscopic resolution in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques have been developed and extensively used in the study of animal models of human diseases. Standard MRI methods are frequently used in clinical studies and in the general clinical practice of human neurological diseases. This generates a need for similar studies in experimental animal research. Because small rodents are the most commonly used species as animal models of neurological diseases, the MRI techniques need to be able to provide microscopic resolution and high signal-to-noise ratio images in relatively short time. Small animal MRI systems use very high field-strength magnets, which results in higher signal to noise ratio; however, the contrast characteristics of live tissue are different at these field strengths. In addition to standard MRI techniques, several new applications have been implemented in experimental animals, including diffusion and perfusion studies, MR angiography, functional MRI studies, MRI tractography, proton and phosphorous spectroscopy, cellular and molecular imaging using novel contrast methods. Here we give an overview of how to establish a small animal imaging facility with the goal of CNS imaging. We describe the basic physical processes leading to MR signal generation, highlighting the differences between standard clinical MRI and small animal MRI. Finally, typical findings in the most common neurological disease categories and novel MRI/magnetic resonance spectroscopy methods used in their study are also described.
Insights
Microscopic in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables detailed study of animal models for human neurological diseases. This overview guides establishing small animal MRI facilities for advanced CNS imaging research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Imaging
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Microscopic in vivo MRI techniques are crucial for studying animal models of human diseases.
- Clinical MRI methods necessitate similar high-resolution techniques in experimental animal research.
- Small rodent models require high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) microscopic MRI within short scan times.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of establishing a small animal imaging facility for central nervous system (CNS) imaging.
- To describe the fundamental principles of MR signal generation and differences between clinical and small animal MRI.
- To present typical findings and novel MRI/MRS methods for neurological disease categories in animal models.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing high field-strength magnets in small animal MRI systems for enhanced SNR.
- Implementing advanced MRI applications: diffusion, perfusion, angiography, functional MRI, tractography, and spectroscopy.
- Employing novel contrast methods for cellular and molecular imaging.
Main Results:
- High field-strength MRI offers high SNR but altered tissue contrast in small animals.
- Various advanced MRI techniques are applicable to small animal neurological disease research.
- Establishment of dedicated small animal imaging facilities is key for CNS research.
Conclusions:
- Small animal MRI is essential for advancing neurological disease research using animal models.
- Understanding MRI physics and advanced techniques is critical for effective CNS imaging.
- Dedicated facilities and novel methods enhance the study of neurological diseases in preclinical research.
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