Mouse Brain MRI: Including In Vivo, Ex Vivo, and fcMRI for the Study of Microcephaly

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Developmental Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging Techniques

Background:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) excels in soft tissue visualization, aiding the study of neuroanatomical abnormalities in conditions like microcephaly.
• Beyond structural details, functional MRI (fMRI) reveals brain function changes in various neurological disorders, underscoring MRI's broad utility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide detailed protocols for in vivo and ex vivo anatomical MRI in mice.
• To outline methods for perfusion, fixation, and contrast agent application in brain tissue.
• To describe functional connectivity MRI (fcMRI) protocols and specific considerations for functional imaging.

Main Methods:

• Mouse preparation and in vivo anatomical MRI data acquisition.
• Perfusion and fixation protocols for brain tissue, including gadolinium contrast agent use.
• Optimization of system parameters for both in vivo and ex vivo anatomical imaging.

Main Results:

• Established protocols for high-resolution anatomical MRI of mouse brains.
• Detailed methods for functional connectivity MRI (fcMRI) acquisition.
• Guidance on optimizing MRI parameters for specific research needs.

Conclusions:

• MRI is indispensable for investigating microcephaly's neuroanatomical and functional aspects.
• This chapter provides a comprehensive methodological framework for mouse brain MRI.
• The protocols facilitate advanced research into neurological conditions using MRI.