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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Deep gray matter T2 hypointensity correlates with disability in a murine model of MS
Istvan Pirko1, Aaron J Johnson, Anne K Lohrey
1Department of Neurology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA. Istvan.Pirko@uc.edu
Abstract:
Advanced MRI studies demonstrated several diffuse non-lesional features in multiple sclerosis, including changes detectable in gray matter areas. Standard T2 weighted MRI scans of deep gray matter structures, including the thalamus, caudate, putamen, dentate nuclei often demonstrate hypointensity. T2 hypointensity has been shown to correlate with cognitive, neuropsychiatric and motor dysfunction. The exact pathogenesis of this MRI phenomenon remains unknown. In this manuscript, we demonstrate the first known MS animal model of deep gray matter T2 hypointensity. In TMEV infected SJL/J mice, gradual development of thalamic T2 hypointensity was noted over the disease course. Quantitative analysis of the hypointensity demonstrated a strong correlation between the degree of T2 hypointensity and rotarod detectable disability. We propose that this model will allow mechanistic studies investigating the pathogenesis and significance of deep gray matter T2 hypointensity in MS.
Insights
Researchers developed the first animal model for deep gray matter T2 hypointensity in multiple sclerosis (MS). This model shows thalamic T2 hypointensity correlating with motor dysfunction, aiding MS pathogenesis research.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Neuroimmunology
Background:
- Advanced MRI reveals diffuse non-lesional features in multiple sclerosis (MS), including gray matter changes.
- Deep gray matter structures (thalamus, caudate, putamen, dentate nuclei) often show T2 hypointensity on MRI.
- T2 hypointensity is linked to cognitive, neuropsychiatric, and motor impairments in MS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the first animal model for deep gray matter T2 hypointensity in MS.
- To investigate the pathogenesis and significance of this MRI finding.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the TMEV infection model in SJL/J mice.
- Performed serial T2-weighted MRI scans to monitor thalamic T2 hypointensity.
- Quantitatively analyzed hypointensity and correlated it with rotarod-detected motor disability.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated gradual development of thalamic T2 hypointensity over the disease course in TMEV-infected mice.
- Found a strong correlation between the degree of T2 hypointensity and rotarod-detectable motor disability.
- Established a novel MS animal model for studying deep gray matter pathology.
Conclusions:
- The TMEV-infected SJL/J mouse model successfully replicates deep gray matter T2 hypointensity seen in MS.
- This model provides a valuable tool for mechanistic studies into the causes and consequences of T2 hypointensity in MS.
- Further research using this model can elucidate the role of deep gray matter changes in MS pathogenesis and clinical outcomes.
