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Localization of the Locus Coeruleus in the Mouse Brain
Published on: March 7, 2019
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Uncovering the locus coeruleus: Comparison of localization methods for functional analysis
Verónica Mäki-Marttunen1, Thomas Espeseth2
1Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Postboks 1094, Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway.
Neuroimage
|October 4, 2020
Summary
Comparing methods for localizing the locus coeruleus (LC) in brain imaging, this study found that sample-specific masks are better than independent ones. A consensus mask combining multiple approaches may offer the most accurate LC localization.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Neuroscience
- Brainstem Anatomy
Background:
- Functional neuroimaging of the locus coeruleus (LC) is crucial for understanding aging and clinical conditions.
- Various methods exist for localizing the LC in vivo, but their comparability is uncertain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the similarity of four distinct LC localization methods.
- To assess functional connectivity differences derived from these localization methods.
Main Methods:
- Compared four LC localization techniques: probabilistic map, neuromelanin-sensitive MRI masks (manual/semi-automatic), independent component analysis, and pupil regression.
- Analyzed similarity metrics between LC masks from different methods in a sample of 98 participants.
- Compared functional connectivity maps generated using each LC mask.
Main Results:
- Sample-specific LC masks showed higher suitability compared to those from independent samples.
- Structural and functional localization methods identified potentially different portions of the LC.
- A consensus mask, integrating multiple localization approaches, may provide a more robust group-level LC estimate.
Conclusions:
- The choice of LC localization method impacts functional connectivity findings.
- Sample-specific and consensus masking strategies are recommended for improved LC localization in neuroimaging research.
