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Direct visualization and characterization of the human zona incerta and surrounding structures
Jonathan C Lau1,2,3,4, Yiming Xiao2,3, Roy A M Haast2,3
1Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
Human Brain Mapping
|July 18, 2020
Summary
High-resolution MRI successfully visualized the zona incerta (ZI), a deep brain structure. This breakthrough allows detailed in vivo study of the ZI and aids neuromodulatory therapy development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Neuroanatomy
- Deep Brain Structures
Background:
- The zona incerta (ZI) is a poorly understood deep brain region.
- In vivo visualization and characterization of the ZI have been challenging.
- Understanding the ZI is crucial for neuromodulatory therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a noninvasive method for delineating the ZI and surrounding structures.
- To characterize the in vivo size, shape, location, and tissue properties of ZI substructures.
- To provide a structural basis for functional and neuromodulatory studies of the ZI.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-resolution (submillimetric) longitudinal (T1) relaxometry.
- Employed high magnetic field strength (7 Tesla MRI).
- Delineated the ZI from adjacent white matter tracts like the fasciculus cerebellothalamicus and medial lemniscus.
Main Results:
- Successfully visualized and delineated the ZI in vivo using T1 relaxometry at 7T.
- Derived estimates for the size, shape, location, and tissue characteristics of ZI substructures.
- Confirmed the ZI comprises distinct morphological entities, not merely a space.
Conclusions:
- High-resolution T1 relaxometry at 7T enables detailed in vivo characterization of the ZI.
- This technique provides a structural foundation for future functional and neuromodulatory research.
- The findings facilitate a deeper understanding of this complex deep brain region.
