A detailed canine brain label map for neuroimaging analysis

Area of Science:

• Comparative neuroscience
• Neuroimaging
• Veterinary neurology

Background:

• Dogs are increasingly used as a model species in social and cognitive neuroscience research.
• Accurate brain atlases are crucial for analyzing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data and localizing neural activity in canine neuroimaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a detailed, individual-based, T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based brain label map for canine neuroimaging analysis.
• To improve the precision and standardization of localization in future canine neuroimaging studies.

Main Methods:

• A single Golden Retriever was selected based on optimal brain morphology from a cohort of 22 dogs.
• A T1-weighted MRI scan was used to create a detailed, individual-based brain template.
• Eighty-six 3D labels were generated to delineate cortical and subcortical structures.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive label map was created, detailing 86 distinct 3D brain structures.
• The map includes major cortical, subcortical (e.g., thalamus, caudate nucleus, amygdala, hippocampus), and brainstem regions.
• The developed label map is more detailed than existing canine brain templates.

Conclusions:

• The presented canine brain label map is highly detailed and user-friendly for MRI and fMRI analysis.
• It is compatible with various neuroimaging software and can be registered with other existing templates.
• This resource is expected to enhance the precision and standardization of localization in canine neuroimaging research.