A non-invasive approach to awake mouse fMRI compatible with multi-modal techniques

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Mouse functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is crucial for neuroscience research.
• Anesthesia-free awake mouse fMRI enhances translational validity and enables complex tasks.
• Current surgical restraints are not suitable for all awake mouse fMRI applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel, non-invasive head restraint for awake mouse fMRI.
• To assess the restraint's compatibility with brain stimulation and recording techniques.
• To compare the restraint's performance against conventional headpost methods.

Main Methods:

• Designed and implemented an open-source, non-invasive head restraint system.
• Evaluated mouse restraint effectiveness, fMRI data quality, and animal stress levels.
• Compared the non-invasive restraint with a traditional headpost restraint in awake mice.

Main Results:

• The non-invasive restraint effectively secured mice of various weights without anesthesia.
• Increased data acquisition compensated for higher motion-related data loss.
• Achieved comparable functional network spatial specificity to headpost restraints.

Conclusions:

• A simple, open-source head restraint facilitates awake mouse fMRI for specific research needs.
• The developed protocols support acclimation and scanning procedures for this restraint.
• This approach offers a valuable alternative for awake mouse neuroimaging studies.