Characterization of Structural Connectivity of the Default Mode Network in Dogs using Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Jennifer L Robinson1,2,3, Madhura Baxi1,4, Jeffrey S Katz1,2,3
1AU MRI Research Center, Dept. of Electrical &Computer Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
Scientific Reports
|November 26, 2016
Summary
Researchers created a canine brain atlas using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to study white matter diseases. This DTI atlas helps investigate brain connectivity, offering insights into canine and human cognitive evolution.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Comparative Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) reveals white-matter tract micro-architecture.
- Canines serve as valuable animal models due to evolutionary links with humans in social cognition.
- Understanding canine brain structure aids translational research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a DTI-based atlas of the canine brain.
- To investigate white matter diseases using a canine model.
- To explore structural connectivity within the canine default mode network (DMN).
Main Methods:
- Acquired diffusion imaging data from anesthetized dogs.
- Constructed a DTI-based atlas for the canine brain.
- Calculated structural connectivity between anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) using DTI tractography.
Main Results:
- A DTI atlas for canine brain white matter was successfully created.
- Structural connectivity within the canine DMN was mapped.
- Provided a structural basis for functional dissociation within the canine DMN.
Conclusions:
- The canine DTI atlas is a valuable tool for studying white matter diseases.
- Investigating canine brain connectivity offers insights into the evolution of cognitive functions.
- Comparing canine and human DMN connectivity may illuminate neural bases of cognitive evolution.
