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Updated: May 3, 2026
Author Spotlight: Noninvasive Cerebral Blood Flow Determination in Human Functional Brain Region for Diagnosis of Neurological Disorders
Published on: May 31, 2024
Quantitative cerebral blood flow measurements using MRI
Eric R Muir1, Lora Talley Watts, Yash Vardhan Tiwari
1Department of Ophthalmology, Research Imaging Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA.
Abstract:
Magnetic resonance imaging can be utilized as a quantitative and noninvasive method to image cerebral blood flow. The two most common techniques used to detect cerebral blood flow are dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) perfusion MRI and arterial spin labeling perfusion MRI. Herein we describe the use of these two techniques to measure cerebral blood flow in rodents, including methods, analysis, and important considerations when utilizing these techniques.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging offers a noninvasive way to measure rodent cerebral blood flow. This summary covers dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) perfusion MRI and arterial spin labeling (ASL) perfusion MRI methods.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Physiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cerebral blood flow (CBF) is crucial for brain function and health.
- Quantitative, noninvasive imaging methods are needed for CBF assessment.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides such capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the application of two common MRI techniques for measuring rodent cerebral blood flow.
- To detail the methods, analysis, and considerations for using DSC and ASL perfusion MRI in rodents.
Main Methods:
- Dynamic Susceptibility Contrast (DSC) perfusion MRI.
- Arterial Spin Labeling (ASL) perfusion MRI.
- Application of these techniques in rodent models.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of quantitative CBF measurement using DSC and ASL MRI.
- Outline of specific protocols and analytical approaches for rodent studies.
- Identification of key factors influencing data acquisition and interpretation.
Conclusions:
- DSC and ASL perfusion MRI are valuable tools for quantitative, noninvasive CBF assessment in rodents.
- Careful methodology and analysis are essential for reliable results.
- These techniques facilitate preclinical research into cerebrovascular diseases and treatments.
