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Updated: Feb 13, 2026
High-resolution Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Human Subcortex In Vivo and Postmortem
Published on: December 30, 2015
Postmortem magnetic resonance imaging
Laura E Jonkman1, Jeroen J G Geurts1
1Department of Anatomy and Neurosciences, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
This chapter provides a brief overview of studies that combine postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathology. We touch upon the logistics of setting up a protocol that limits unwanted postmortem delays and explain how combining postmortem MRI and histopathology can elucidate the histologic substrate of signal changes that appear on MRI. This is demonstrated by exemplary studies in multiple sclerosis, and includes various histopathologic techniques and a wide range of conventional and advanced MRI sequences at various field strengths. We cover topics such as how to visualize white-matter pathology and repair with conventional and advanced MRI sequences, describe the history of visualizing pathology of the gray matter (with newly developed MRI and immunohistopathology techniques), and how advanced methods have aided research in other neurologic diseases. We conclude with several suggestions for future development, such as bridging the gap between postmortem and in vivo research and the importance of collecting non-neurological control tissue.
Insights
Combining postmortem MRI and histopathology reveals the microscopic basis of MRI signal changes. This approach aids understanding of white and gray matter diseases like multiple sclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Neuropathology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathology are crucial for understanding neurological diseases.
- Integrating these techniques can bridge the gap between in vivo observations and tissue-level pathology.
- Unexplained MRI signal changes necessitate detailed tissue-level investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of studies combining postmortem MRI and histopathology.
- To explain how this integrated approach elucidates the histologic basis of MRI signal alterations.
- To highlight applications in neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Establishing protocols to minimize postmortem delay for optimal tissue preservation.
- Utilizing a range of conventional and advanced MRI sequences at various field strengths.
- Employing diverse histopathologic techniques, including immunohistopathology for gray matter studies.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated visualization of white matter pathology and repair mechanisms using advanced MRI.
- Showcased historical and novel techniques for visualizing gray matter pathology.
- Illustrated the utility of combined methods in studying multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders.
Conclusions:
- Combining postmortem MRI and histopathology effectively links imaging findings to tissue pathology.
- This integrated approach is valuable for studying white and gray matter diseases.
- Future research should focus on bridging in vivo and postmortem studies and including control tissues.
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