Magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the rodent brain: Experts' consensus recommendations

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• In vivo Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) is a non-invasive technique for measuring metabolite concentrations and metabolic rates.
• It is applicable in both human and animal studies, particularly with high-field magnets, to understand biochemistry and disease mechanisms.
• Preclinical MRS in animal models provides unique biochemical insights beyond human studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To focus on preclinical proton (¹H), phosphorus (³¹P), and carbon (¹³C) MRS approaches for studying brain metabolism in rodent models.
• To provide expert consensus recommendations for animal models, anesthesia, and data acquisition protocols in preclinical MRS.
• To highlight practical differences between preclinical and clinical MRS studies and the additional biochemical data obtainable from animal models.

Main Methods:

• Utilized high-field magnets for in vivo MRS in rodent models.
• Focused on ¹H, ³¹P, and ¹³C MRS techniques.
• Described practical aspects including animal model selection, anesthesia protocols, and data acquisition strategies.

Main Results:

• Detailed the properties and technical limitations of high-field preclinical MRS.
• Presented an overview of practical differences between preclinical and clinical MRS.
• Showcased the enhanced biochemical information, including metabolite concentrations and metabolic flux measurements, obtainable in preclinical studies.

Conclusions:

• Preclinical in vivo MRS is a powerful tool for investigating brain metabolism in rodent models.
• Standardized protocols and expert recommendations are crucial for reliable and comparable preclinical MRS data.
• Animal models offer unique opportunities to deepen the understanding of metabolic disturbances in neurological conditions.