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Multiple-mouse Neuroanatomical Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: February 27, 2011
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The rabbit as a behavioral model system for magnetic resonance imaging
Craig Weiss1, Daniel Procissi2, John M Power3
1Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Journal of Neuroscience Methods
|May 30, 2017
Summary
A novel headbolt implant in awake rabbits enables comfortable brain imaging via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This method reduces habituation time and allows for observation during natural behavior, improving functional MRI studies.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medical Imaging
- Animal Research
Background:
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) necessitates subject immobility during image acquisition.
- Current methods rely on subject instruction or anesthesia, limiting awake and naturalistic studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a detailed method for preparing and utilizing a surgically implanted headbolt in rabbits for awake brain MRI.
- To enable comfortable and stable head positioning for high-resolution imaging.
Main Methods:
- Surgically implanting a headbolt onto the rabbit skull for secure head fixation.
- Utilizing visual and whisker stimulation during imaging.
- Recording eye blinks to monitor movement artifacts.
Main Results:
- A single daily habituation session proved sufficient for immobility in subsequent imaging sessions.
- High-resolution images were obtained in the stereotaxic plane without MR signal degradation.
- The headbolt facilitated rapid head realignment across sessions and subjects.
Conclusions:
- The rabbit's natural tolerance for restraint makes it an ideal subject for MRI studies.
- The headbolt method allows for awake brain imaging, observation of behavior during natural wake cycles, and reduced habituation periods compared to rodents.
