Photoacoustics can image spreading depolarization deep in gyrencephalic brain

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Spreading depolarization (SD) is a neuronal event implicated in stroke and brain injury.
• Current methods for imaging deep brain SD lack sufficient spatiotemporal resolution and contrast.
• Understanding SD mechanisms in complex brains is crucial for developing new therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel photoacoustic imaging technique for studying deep brain spreading depolarization.
• To assess the capability of this technique in visualizing SD hemodynamics with high resolution.
• To explore the potential of this imaging approach for advancing stroke and brain injury research.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an intraoperative hybrid photoacoustic and ultrasonic imaging system.
• Continuously estimated blood oxygenation to track tissue hypoxia associated with SD.
• Applied the technique to image deep within a gyrencephalic brain model.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated that photoacoustic imaging can study deep brain SD with high spatiotemporal resolution.
• Successfully visualized the hemodynamic changes accompanying SD.
• Achieved high contrast imaging of SD deep within the brain.

Conclusions:

• Photoacoustic imaging offers a promising new modality for investigating spreading depolarization in deep brain structures.
• This high-resolution technique can provide novel insights into SD pathophysiology.
• The approach holds potential for improving research and treatment strategies for stroke and brain injury.