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Published on: March 31, 2023
Visualization of the visual cortex in minipigs using fMRI
Elke R Gizewski1, Thomas Schanze, Ines Bolle
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, D-45127 Essen, Germany. elke.gizewski@uni-essen.de
Abstract:
Minipigs are widely used to examine physiologic mechanisms under experimental settings. The purpose of our study was to localize the visual cortex of minipigs using visual stimulation in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Five male Göttinger minipigs were studied with fMRI during visual stimulation with series of light impulses conducted into the MR cabin via fibre optical wave guides (EPI sequences, block design, 1.5 T clinical routine MR-scanner). Statistics were performed using SPM'99. All minipigs showed activation of the visual cortex due to light stimulation. The activation could be superimposed to T2-weighted structural images with good spatial resolution revealing the exact location of the visual cortex. We were able to localize the visual cortex in minipigs for the first time utilizing fMRI on a routine scanner. However, this may be useful for precise positioning of electrodes or implants or be used as a further uncomplicated non-invasive method in physiologic experiments.
Insights
Researchers successfully mapped the visual cortex in minipigs using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with light stimulation. This non-invasive technique precisely locates the visual cortex, aiding future physiological experiments and electrode placement.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medical Imaging
- Animal Models
Background:
- Minipigs are valuable models for physiological research.
- Accurate localization of brain regions is crucial for experimental studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To localize the visual cortex in minipigs using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
- To establish a non-invasive method for precise anatomical targeting in minipig research.
Main Methods:
- fMRI was performed on five male Göttinger minipigs under visual stimulation (light impulses).
- EPI sequences in a block design were used on a 1.5 T clinical scanner.
- Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM'99) was employed for data analysis.
Main Results:
- All minipigs exhibited significant activation in the visual cortex upon light stimulation.
- fMRI data allowed for precise superimposition onto T2-weighted structural images.
- The visual cortex was successfully localized in minipigs for the first time using routine fMRI.
Conclusions:
- fMRI is an effective non-invasive method for localizing the visual cortex in minipigs.
- This technique facilitates accurate electrode or implant positioning.
- The method offers a valuable tool for future physiological experiments in minipigs.
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