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Mercer GV, Stapleton D, Barrett C, Ringer LCM, Lambe S, Critch A, Newman G, Pelley A, Biswas RG, Wolff W, Kock FC, Soong R, Simpson AJ, Cahill LS. Identifying placental metabolic biomarkers of preterm birth using nuclear magnetic resonance of intact tissue samples. Placenta 2023; 143:80-86. [PMID: 37864887 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Our understanding of the etiology of preterm birth (PTB) is incomplete; however, recent evidence has found a strong association between placental dysfunction and PTB. Altered placental metabolism may precede placental dysfunction and therefore the study of placental metabolic profiles could identify early biomarkers of PTB. In this study, we evaluated the placental metabolome in PTB in intact tissue samples using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and spectral editing. METHODS Placental tissue samples were collected from nine term pregnancies and nine preterm pregnancies (<37 weeks' gestation). 1H NMR experiments on unprocessed tissue samples were performed using a high field magnet (500 MHz spectrometer) and a comprehensive multiphase NMR probe. The relative concentrations of 23 metabolites were corrected for gestational age and compared between groups. RESULTS The relative concentration of valine, glutamate and creatine were significantly decreased while alanine, choline and glucose were elevated in placentas from PTB pregnancies compared to controls (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis using principal component analysis showed the PTB and control groups were significantly separated (p < 0.0001) and pathway analysis identified perturbations in the glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis and valine, leucine and isoleucine biosynthesis pathways. CONCLUSION PTB is associated with significant alterations in placental metabolism. This study helps improve our understanding of the etiology of PTB. It also highlights the potential for small molecule metabolites to serve as placental metabolic biomarkers to aid in the prediction and diagnosis of PTB. The results can be translated to clinical use via in utero magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace V Mercer
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Darcie Stapleton
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Catherine Barrett
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Lauren C M Ringer
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Stacy Lambe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Amanda Critch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Newman
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Ashley Pelley
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Rajshree Ghosh Biswas
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - William Wolff
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ronald Soong
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - André J Simpson
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lindsay S Cahill
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada; Discipline of Radiology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
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2
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Zhang X. Magnetic resonance imaging of the monkey fetal brain in utero. INVESTIGATIVE MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING 2022; 26:177-190. [PMID: 36937817 PMCID: PMC10019598 DOI: 10.13104/imri.2022.26.4.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Non-human primates (NHPs) are the closest living relatives of the human and play a critical role in investigating the effects of maternal viral infection and consumption of medicines, drugs, and alcohol on fetal development. With the advance of contemporary fast MRI techniques with parallel imaging, fetal MRI is becoming a robust tool increasingly used in clinical practice and preclinical studies to examine congenital abnormalities including placental dysfunction, congenital heart disease (CHD), and brain abnormalities non-invasively. Because NHPs are usually scanned under anesthesia, the motion artifact is reduced substantially, allowing multi-parameter MRI techniques to be used intensively to examine the fetal development in a single scanning session or longitudinal studies. In this paper, the MRI techniques for scanning monkey fetal brains in utero in biomedical research are summarized. Also, a fast imaging protocol including T2-weighted imaging, diffusion MRI, resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI) to examine rhesus monkey fetal brains in utero on a clinical 3T scanner is introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Zhang
- EPC Imaging Center and Division of Neuropharmacology and Neurologic Diseases, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, 30329, USA
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3
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Rajagopalan V, Deoni S, Panigrahy A, Thomason ME. Is fetal MRI ready for neuroimaging prime time? An examination of progress and remaining areas for development. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2021; 51:100999. [PMID: 34391003 PMCID: PMC8365463 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2021.100999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge in designing large-scale, multi-site studies is developing a core, scalable protocol that retains the innovation of scientific advances while also lending itself to the variability in experience and resources across sites. In the development of a common Healthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) protocol, one of the chief questions is "is fetal MRI ready for prime-time?" While there is agreement about the value of prenatal data obtained non-invasively through MRI, questions about practicality abound. There has been rapid progress over the past years in fetal and placental MRI methodology but there is uncertainty about whether the gains afforded outweigh the challenges in supporting fetal MRI protocols at scale. Here, we will define challenges inherent in building a common protocol across sites with variable expertise and will propose a tentative framework for evaluation of design decisions. We will compare and contrast various design considerations for both normative and high-risk populations, in the setting of the post-COVID era. We will conclude with articulation of the benefits of overcoming these challenges and would lend to the primary questions articulated in the HBCD initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya Rajagopalan
- Department of Radiology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California and Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles, United States.
| | - Sean Deoni
- Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, United States
| | - Ashok Panigrahy
- Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical School and Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Moriah E Thomason
- Departments of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Population Health, Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, United States
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4
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Diogo MC, Glatter S, Binder J, Kiss H, Prayer D. The MRI spectrum of congenital cytomegalovirus infection. Prenat Diagn 2020; 40:110-124. [PMID: 31802515 PMCID: PMC7027449 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an ubiquitous pathogen, with a high worldwide seroprevalence. When acquired in the prenatal period, congenital CMV (cCMV) is a major cause of neurodevelopmental sequelae and hearing loss. cCMV remains an underdiagnosed condition, with no systematic screening implemented in pregnancy or in the postnatal period. Therefore, imaging takes a prominent role in prenatal diagnosis of cCMV. With the prospect of new viable therapies, accurate and timely diagnosis becomes paramount, as well as identification of fetuses at risk for neurodevelopmental sequelae. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a complementary method to ultrasound (US) in fetal brain and body imaging. Anterior temporal lobe lesions are the most specific finding, and MRI is superior to US in their detection. Other findings such as ventriculomegaly, cortical malformations and calcifications, as well as hepatosplenomegaly, liver signal changes and abnormal effusions are unspecific. However, when seen in combination these should raise the suspicion of fetal infection, highlighting the need for a full fetal assessment. Still, some fetuses deemed normal on prenatal imaging are symptomatic at birth or develop delayed cCMV-associated symptoms, leaving room for improvement of diagnostic tools. Advanced MR sequences may help in this field and in determining prognosis, but further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana C. Diogo
- Department of Image Guided TherapyUniversity Clinic for Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Sarah Glatter
- Department of Image Guided TherapyUniversity Clinic for Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of ViennaViennaAustria
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent MedicineMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Julia Binder
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Herbert Kiss
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Daniela Prayer
- Department of Image Guided TherapyUniversity Clinic for Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of ViennaViennaAustria
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Aertsen M, Diogo MC, Dymarkowski S, Deprest J, Prayer D. Fetal MRI for dummies: what the fetal medicine specialist should know about acquisitions and sequences. Prenat Diagn 2019; 40:6-17. [PMID: 31618472 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Fetal MRI is an increasingly used tool in the field of prenatal diagnosis. While US remains the first line screening tool, as an adjuvant imaging tool, MRI has been proven to increase diagnostic accuracy and change patient counseling. Further, there are instances when US may not be sufficient for diagnosis. As a multidisciplinary field, it is important that every person involved in the referral, diagnosis, counseling and treatment of the patients is familiar with the basic principles, indications and findings of fetal MRI. The purpose of the current paper is to equip radiologists and non-radiologists with basic MRI principles and essential topics in patient preparation and provide illustrative examples of when fetal MRI may be used. This aims to aid the referring clinician in better selecting and improve patient counseling prior to arrival in the radiology department and, ultimately, patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Aertsen
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, Clinical Department of Radiology, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mariana C Diogo
- Department of Image Guided Therapy, University Clinic for Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steven Dymarkowski
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, Clinical Department of Radiology, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Deprest
- Academic Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Daniela Prayer
- Department of Image Guided Therapy, University Clinic for Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Ryan MC, Kochunov P, Sherman PM, Rowland LM, Wijtenburg SA, Acheson A, Hong LE, Sladky J, McGuire S. Miniature pig magnetic resonance spectroscopy model of normal adolescent brain development. J Neurosci Methods 2018; 308:173-182. [PMID: 30099002 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We are developing the miniature pig (Sus scrofa domestica), an in-vivo translational, gyrencephalic model for brain development, as an alternative to laboratory rodents/non-human primates. We analyzed longitudinal changes in adolescent pigs using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) and examined the relationship with white matter (WM) integrity derived from diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). NEW METHOD Twelve female Sinclair™ pigs underwent three imaging/spectroscopy sessions every 23.95 ± 3.73 days beginning at three months of age using a clinical 3 T scanner. 1H-MRS data were collected using 1.2 × 1.0 × 3.0 cm voxels placed in left and right hemisphere WM using a Point Resolved Spectroscopy sequence (TR = 2000 ms, TE = 30 ms). Concentrations of N-acetylaspartate, myo-inositol (MI), glutamate + glutamine, choline, creatine, and macromolecules (MM) 09 and 14 were averaged from both hemispheres. DWI data were collected using 15 shells of b-values (b = 0-3500 s/mm2) with 32 directions/shell and fit using the WM Tract Integrity model to calculate fractional anisotropy (FA), kurtosis anisotropy (KA) and permeability-diffusivity index. RESULTS MI and MM09 significantly declined with age. Increased FA and KA significantly correlated with decline in MI and MM09. Correlations lost significance once corrected for age. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS MRI scanners/protocols can be used to collect 1H-MRS and DWI data in pigs. Pigs have a larger, more complex, gyrencephalic brain than laboratory rodents but are less complex than non-human primates, thus satisfying the "replacement" principle of animal research. CONCLUSIONS Longitudinal effects in MRS measurements were similar to those reported in adolescent humans. MRS changes correlated with diffusion measurements indicating ongoing WM myelination/maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghann C Ryan
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 55 Wade Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228, United States.
| | - Peter Kochunov
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 55 Wade Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228, United States.
| | - Paul M Sherman
- U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, Aeromedical Research Department, 2510 5th Street, Building 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7913, United States; Department of Radiology, 59thMedical Wing, 1100 Wilford Hall Loop, Bldg 4551, Joint Base San Antonio, TX, 78236, United States.
| | - Laura M Rowland
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 55 Wade Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228, United States.
| | - S Andrea Wijtenburg
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 55 Wade Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228, United States.
| | - Ashley Acheson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham St., Little Rock, AR, 72205, United States.
| | - L Elliot Hong
- Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 55 Wade Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228, United States.
| | - John Sladky
- U.S. Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, Aeromedical Research Department, 2510 5th Street, Building 840, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7913, United States; Department of Neurology, 59th Medical Wing, 1100 Wilford Hall Loop, Bldg 4551, Joint Base San Antonio, Lackland AFB, TX, 78236, United States.
| | - Stephen McGuire
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, United States.
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Urbanik A, Cichocka M, Kozub J, Karcz P, Herman-Sucharska I. Evaluation of changes in biochemical composition of fetal brain between 18th and 40th gestational week in proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 32:2493-2499. [DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1439009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Urbanik
- Department of Radiology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Monika Cichocka
- Department of Radiology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Justyna Kozub
- Department of Radiology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Paulina Karcz
- Department of Electroradiology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Izabela Herman-Sucharska
- Department of Electroradiology, Collegium Medicum of the Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
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8
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Urbanik A, Cichocka M, Kozub J, Karcz P, Herman-Sucharska I. Brain Maturation-Differences in Biochemical Composition of Fetal and Child's Brain. Fetal Pediatr Pathol 2017; 36:380-386. [PMID: 29144870 DOI: 10.1080/15513815.2017.1346019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in 1H MRS spectra of the brain of fetuses and children from 6 to 11 years of age. MATERIAL AND METHODS 21 healthy fetuses in the third trimester and 22 children were examined using the proton nuclear magnetic resonance. The relative metabolite concentrations to the sum of all metabolites were calculated. RESULTS In the 1H MRS spectra of the brain from fetuses and children, there are the same characteristic peaks: N-acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine (Cr), choline (Cho), and myo-inositol (mI). NAA/Σ, NAA/Cr, and Cr/Σ concentrations are significantly higher and Cho/Σ, Cho/Cr, mI/Σ, and mI/Cr are significantly lower in children than in the fetuses. CONCLUSIONS It was found that the brain metabolism changes from fetal life to childhood. The results of this study may provide a valuable basis for further research on brain maturation and "healthy aging."
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Urbanik
- a Department of Radiology , Uniwersytet Jagiellonski w Krakowie Collegium Medicum , Krakow , Poland
| | - Monika Cichocka
- a Department of Radiology , Uniwersytet Jagiellonski w Krakowie Collegium Medicum , Krakow , Poland
| | - Justyna Kozub
- a Department of Radiology , Uniwersytet Jagiellonski w Krakowie Collegium Medicum , Krakow , Poland
| | - Paulina Karcz
- b Department of Electroradiology , Uniwersytet Jagiellonski w Krakowie Collegium Medicum , Krakow , Poland
| | - Izabela Herman-Sucharska
- b Department of Electroradiology , Uniwersytet Jagiellonski w Krakowie Collegium Medicum , Krakow , Poland
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Detection and assessment of brain injury in the growth-restricted fetus and neonate. Pediatr Res 2017; 82:184-193. [PMID: 28234891 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2017.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a common complication of pregnancy and, in severe cases, is associated with elevated rates of perinatal mortality, neonatal morbidity, and poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. The leading cause of FGR is placental insufficiency, with the placenta failing to adequately meet the increasing oxygen and nutritional needs of the growing fetus with advancing gestation. The resultant chronic fetal hypoxia induces a decrease in fetal growth, and a redistribution of blood flow preferentially to the brain. However, this adaptation does not ensure normal brain development. Early detection of brain injury in FGR, allowing for the prediction of short- and long-term neurodevelopmental consequences, remains a significant challenge. Furthermore, in FGR infants the detection and diagnosis of neuropathology is complicated by preterm birth, the etiological heterogeneity of FGR, timing of onset of growth restriction, its severity, and coexisting complications. In this review, we examine existing and emerging diagnostic tools from human and preclinical studies for the detection and assessment of brain injury in FGR fetuses and neonates. Increased detection rates, and early detection of brain injury associated with FGR, will offer opportunities for developing and assessing interventions to improve long-term outcomes.
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Weisstanner C, Gruber GM, Brugger PC, Mitter C, Diogo MC, Kasprian G, Prayer D. Fetal MRI at 3T-ready for routine use? Br J Radiol 2017; 90:20160362. [PMID: 27768394 PMCID: PMC5605013 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20160362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal MR now plays an important role in the clinical work-up of pregnant females. It is performed mainly at 1.5 T. However, the desire to obtain a more precise fetal depiction or the fact that some institutions have access only to a 3.0 T scanner has resulted in a growing interest in performing fetal MR at 3.0 T. The aim of this article was to provide a reference for the use of 3.0 T MRI as a prenatal diagnostic method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Weisstanner
- 1 Division of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- 2 Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Gerlinde M Gruber
- 3 Center of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter C Brugger
- 3 Center of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christan Mitter
- 1 Division of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mariana C Diogo
- 4 Neuroradiology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gregor Kasprian
- 1 Division of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Prayer
- 1 Division of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Department of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Nguyen TV, Ducharme S, Karama S. Effects of Sex Steroids in the Human Brain. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:7507-7519. [PMID: 27822715 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0198-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroids are thought to play a critical developmental role in shaping both cortical and subcortical structures in the human brain. Periods of profound changes in sex steroids invariably coincide with the onset of sex differences in mental health vulnerability, highlighting the importance of sex steroids in determining sexual differentiation of the brain. Yet, most of the evidence for the central effects of sex steroids relies on non-human studies, as several challenges have limited our understanding of these effects in humans: the lack of systematic assessment of the human sex steroid metabolome, the different developmental trajectories of specific sex steroids, the impact of genetic variation and epigenetic changes, and the plethora of interactions between sex steroids, sex chromosomes, neurotransmitters, and other hormonal systems. Here we review how multimodal strategies may be employed to bridge the gap between the basic and clinical understanding of sex steroid-related changes in the human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuong-Vi Nguyen
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Simon Ducharme
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 1A1, Canada.,McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Sherif Karama
- McConnell Brain Imaging Center, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada. .,Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
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12
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Evangelou IE, du Plessis AJ, Vezina G, Noeske R, Limperopoulos C. Elucidating Metabolic Maturation in the Healthy Fetal Brain Using 1H-MR Spectroscopy. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2016; 37:360-6. [PMID: 26405083 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a4512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE (1)H-MRS provides a noninvasive way to study fetal brain maturation at the biochemical level. The purpose of this study was to characterize in vivo metabolic maturation in the healthy fetal brain during the second and third trimester using (1)H-MRS. MATERIALS AND METHODS Healthy pregnant volunteers between 18 and 40 weeks gestational age underwent single voxel (1)H-MRS. MR spectra were retrospectively corrected for motion-induced artifacts and quantified using LCModel. Linear regression was used to examine the relationship between absolute metabolite concentrations and ratios of total NAA, Cr, and Cho to total Cho and total Cr and gestational age. RESULTS Two hundred four spectra were acquired from 129 pregnant women at mean gestational age of 30.63 ± 6 weeks. Total Cho remained relatively stable across the gestational age (r(2) = 0.04, P = .01). Both total Cr (r(2) = 0.60, P < .0001) as well as total NAA and total NAA to total Cho (r(2) = 0.58, P < .0001) increased significantly between 18 and 40 weeks, whereas total NAA to total Cr exhibited a slower increase (r(2) = 0.12, P < .0001). Total Cr to total Cho also increased (r(2) = 0.53, P < .0001), whereas total Cho to total Cr decreased (r(2) = 0.52, P < .0001) with gestational age. The cohort was also stratified into those that underwent MRS in the second and third trimesters and analyzed separately. CONCLUSIONS We characterized metabolic changes in the normal fetal brain during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and derived normative metabolic indices. These reference values can be used to study metabolic maturation of the fetal brain in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- I E Evangelou
- From the Divisions of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology (I.E.E., G.V., C.L.) Departments of Pediatrics (I.E.E. A.J.D.P., G.V., C.L.) Radiology (I.E.E., G.V.), The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
| | - A J du Plessis
- Fetal and Transitional Medicine (A.J.D.P., C.L.), Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC Departments of Pediatrics (I.E.E. A.J.D.P., G.V., C.L.)
| | - G Vezina
- From the Divisions of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology (I.E.E., G.V., C.L.) Departments of Pediatrics (I.E.E. A.J.D.P., G.V., C.L.) Radiology (I.E.E., G.V.), The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC
| | - R Noeske
- Applied Science Laboratory, GE Healthcare, Berlin, Germany (R.N.)
| | - C Limperopoulos
- From the Divisions of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology (I.E.E., G.V., C.L.) Fetal and Transitional Medicine (A.J.D.P., C.L.), Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC Departments of Pediatrics (I.E.E. A.J.D.P., G.V., C.L.)
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13
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Jakab A, Pogledic I, Schwartz E, Gruber G, Mitter C, Brugger PC, Langs G, Schöpf V, Kasprian G, Prayer D. Fetal Cerebral Magnetic Resonance Imaging Beyond Morphology. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2015; 36:465-75. [DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Shetty AN, Gabr RE, Rendon DA, Cassady CI, Mehollin-Ray AR, Lee W. Improving spectral quality in fetal brain magnetic resonance spectroscopy using constructive averaging. Prenat Diagn 2015; 35:1294-300. [PMID: 26348874 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A common source of loss in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in fetal brain magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is from fetal movement and temporal magnetic field drift. We investigated the feasibility of using constructive averaging strategies for improving the spectral quality and recovering the SNR loss from these effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eight fetuses, between 20 3/7 and 38 2/7 weeks' gestation, were scanned with MRS at 1.5 T. Single-voxel point-resolved spectroscopy of the fetal brain with TE = 144 ms (in one case additional TE = 288 ms) was performed in a dynamic mode, and individual spectra of 128 acquisitions were saved. With constructive averaging strategy individual acquisitions were corrected for phase variations and frequency drift before averaging. Constructively averaged spectra were compared to those using conventional averaging to evaluate differences in spectral quality and SNR. RESULTS The definition of key metabolite peaks was qualitatively improved using constructive averaging, including the doublet structure of lactate in one case. Constructive averaging was associated with SNR increases, ranging from 11% to 40%, and the SNR further improved in one case when outliers from severe motion were rejected before averaging. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using constructive averaging for improving SNR in fetal MRS, which is likely to improve the characterization of fetal brain metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil N Shetty
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Texas Children's Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Refaat E Gabr
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David A Rendon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher I Cassady
- Texas Children's Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Pediatric Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amy R Mehollin-Ray
- Texas Children's Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Pediatric Radiology, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Wesley Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.,Texas Children's Fetal Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Weisstanner C, Kasprian G, Gruber GM, Brugger PC, Prayer D. MRI of the Fetal Brain. Clin Neuroradiol 2015; 25 Suppl 2:189-96. [PMID: 26063004 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-015-0413-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the possibilities for fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of the fetal brain. For brain pathologies, fetal MRI is usually performed when an abnormality is detected by previous prenatal ultrasound, and is, therefore, an important adjunct to ultrasound. The most commonly suspected brain pathologies referred to fetal MRI for further evaluation are ventriculomegaly, missing corpus callosum, and abnormalities of the posterior fossa. We will briefly discuss the most common indications for fetal brain MRI, as well as recent advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Weisstanner
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,University Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - G Kasprian
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - G M Gruber
- Center of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Integrative Morphology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - P C Brugger
- Center of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Integrative Morphology Group, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - D Prayer
- Department of Radiology, Division of Neuro- and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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16
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Degnan AJ, Ceschin R, Lee V, Schmithorst VJ, Blüml S, Panigrahy A. Early metabolic development of posteromedial cortex and thalamus in humans analyzed via in vivo quantitative magnetic resonance spectroscopy. J Comp Neurol 2014; 522:3717-32. [PMID: 24888973 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 05/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The posteromedial cortex (PMC) including the posterior cingulate, retrosplenial cortex, and medial parietal cortex/precuneus is an epicenter of cortical interactions in a wide spectrum of neural activity. Anatomic connections between PMC and thalamic components have been established in animal studies, but similar studies do not exist for the fetal and neonatal period. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) allows for noninvasive measurement of metabolites in early development. Using single-voxel 3-T MRS, healthy term neonates (n = 31, mean postconception age 41.5 weeks ± 3.8 weeks) were compared with control children (n = 23, mean age 9.4 years ± 5.1 years) and young adults (n = 10, mean age 24.1 years ± 2.6 years). LCModel-based calculations compared metabolites within medial parietal gray matter (colocalizing to the PMC), posterior thalamus, and parietal white matter voxels. Common metabolic changes existed for neuronal-axonal maturation and structural markers in the PMC, thalamus, and parietal white matter with increasing NAA and glutamate and decreasing myoinositol and choline with age. Key differences in creatine and glucose metabolism were noted in the PMC, in contrast to the thalamic and parietal white matter locations, suggesting a unique role of energy metabolism. Significant parallel metabolite developmental changes of multiple other metabolites including aspartate, glutamine, and glutathione with age were present between PMC and parietal white matter but not between PMC and thalamus. These findings offer insight into the metabolic architecture of the interface between structural and functional topology of brain networks. Further investigation unifying metabolic changes with functional and anatomic pathways may further enhance the understanding of the PMC in posterior default mode network development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Degnan
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15224; Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213
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Abstract
Fetal MRI is now a well-established imaging modality for the diagnostic evaluation of fetuses with congenital anomalies. In this article, the authors provide a brief overview of the physical principles involved in fetal MRI imaging, the sequences that are used in clinical practice today, current indications, and limitations. A review of current evidence supports the following indications for fetal MRI: suspected central nervous system anomalies, neck and oropharyngeal masses, diaphragmatic hernia, abdominal masses or bowel pathology not fully characterized by ultrasonography, and suspected fetal infection. Other indications should be decided on a case-by-case basis with close collaboration between the departments of maternal-fetal medicine and radiology. More research is needed to determine the role of fetal MRI in functional neuroimaging at higher magnetic field strengths (3T).
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18
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Abstract
CLINICAL/METHODICAL ISSUE Evaluation of the normal and pathological fetal brain. STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODICAL INNOVATIONS Advanced MRI of the fetal brain. PERFORMANCE Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is used in clinical practice, all other methods are used at a research level. ACHIEVEMENTS Serving as standard methods in the future. PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS Combined structural and functional data for all gestational ages will allow more specific insight into the developmental processes of the fetal brain. This gain of information will help provide a common understanding of complex spatial and temporal procedures of early morphological features and their impact on cognitive and sensory abilities.
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19
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Vossough A, Limperopoulos C, Putt ME, du Plessis AJ, Schwab PJ, Wu J, Gee JC, Licht DJ. Development and validation of a semiquantitative brain maturation score on fetal MR images: initial results. Radiology 2013; 268:200-7. [PMID: 23440324 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.13111715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a valid, reliable, and simple-to-use semiquantitative visual scale of fetal brain maturation for use in clinical fetal MR imaging assessment and interpretation. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a retrospective assessment of data from a previous study that was prospective, institutional review board approved, and HIPAA compliant. Forty-eight normal pregnancies with a gestational age (GA) of 25 to 35 weeks were studied. A fetal total maturation score (fTMS) was developed by utilizing six subscores that evaluated cortical sulcation, myelination, and the germinal matrix and provided a single combined numerical value to be evaluated as a marker of brain maturity. The fTMS was correlated with GA and segmented brain volume. A regression model that associated GA based on the visual fTMS scoring was determined. The model was validated with a leave-one-out cross validation procedure. RESULTS Mean GA was 29.3 weeks ± 2.9 (standard deviation) (range, 25.2-35.3 weeks) and mean fTMS was 8.6 ± 3.7 (range, 4-16). The intraclass correlation coefficient between the three readers (independent and blinded) was 0.948 (P < .001). The correlations were as follows: GA and brain volume, r = 0.964 (P < .001); fTMS and brain volume, r = 0.970 (P < .001); and GA and fTMS, r = 0.975 (P < .001). A regression model to calculate GA based on fTMS yielded the following equation: calculated GA (weeks) = 22.86 + 0.748 fTMS (P < .001; adjusted R(2) = 0.946). The standard error of the model for calculation of fetal GA from the visual fTMS scale was ± 4.8 days. CONCLUSION If validated further, the fTMS scale might be used to assess morphologic brain maturity of fetuses between 25 and 35 weeks GA on a single-case basis in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arastoo Vossough
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 324 S 34th St, Wood 2115, Philadelphia, PA 19004, USA.
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20
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Berger-Kulemann V, Brugger PC, Pugash D, Krssak M, Weber M, Wielandner A, Prayer D. MR spectroscopy of the fetal brain: is it possible without sedation? AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2013; 34:424-31. [PMID: 22821916 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a3196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The quality of spectroscopic studies may be limited because of unrestricted fetal movement. Sedation is recommended to avoid motion artefacts. However, sedation involves side effects. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and quality of brain (1)H-MR spectroscopy in unsedated fetuses and to evaluate whether quality is dependent on the type of spectra, fetal presentation, GA, and/or fetal pathology. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-five single-voxel spectroscopic studies of the fetal brain, performed at gestational weeks 19-38 at 1.5T, were evaluated retrospectively. A PRESS (TE = 144 or 35 ms) was used. Fetal presentation, GA, and kind of pathology were recorded. The quality of the spectra was assessed by reviewing the spectral appearance (line width, signal-to-noise) of the creatine resonance obtained relative to concentrations (ratios-to-creatine) of choline, myo-inositol, and NAA. RESULTS Of 75 studies, 50 (66.6%) were rated as readable: short TE = 17/50 (34%), long TE = 33/50 (66%), cephalic presentation in 36/50 (72%) studies, breech in 10/50 (20%) studies, and "other" presentation in 4/50 (8%) studies (mean GA, 31.0 weeks). Twenty-eight of 50 fetuses (56%) showed normal development (short TE = 12/28, long TE = 16/28), and 22/50 (44%) showed pathology. Of the 75 studies, 25 (33.3%) were not readable: short TE = 14/25 (56%), long TE = 11/25 (44%), cephalic presentation in 20/25 (80%) studies, breech in 4/25 (16%) studies, and other presentation in 1 study (4%) (mean GA, 30.1 week). Thirteen of 25 fetuses (52%) showed normal development; 12/25 (48%) showed pathology. Statistical analysis revealed no impact of the different parameters on the quality of spectra. CONCLUSIONS Single-voxel spectroscopy can be performed in approximately two-thirds of unsedated fetuses, regardless of the type of spectra, fetal presentation, GA, and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Berger-Kulemann
- Departments of Radiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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21
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Mailath-Pokorny M, Kasprian G, Mitter C, Schöpf V, Nemec U, Prayer D. Magnetic resonance methods in fetal neurology. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2012; 17:278-84. [PMID: 22749691 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become an established clinical adjunct for the in-vivo evaluation of human brain development. Normal fetal brain maturation can be studied with MRI from the 18th week of gestation to term and relies primarily on T2-weighted sequences. Recently diffusion-weighted sequences have gained importance in the structural assessment of the fetal brain. Diffusion-weighted imaging provides quantitative information about water motion and tissue microstructure and has applications for both developmental and destructive brain processes. Advanced magnetic resonance techniques, such as spectroscopy, might be used to demonstrate metabolites that are involved in brain maturation, though their development is still in the early stages. Using fetal MRI in addition to prenatal ultrasound, morphological, metabolic, and functional assessment of the fetus can be achieved. The latter is not only based on observation of fetal movements as an indirect sign of activity of the fetal brain but also on direct visualization of fetal brain activity, adding a new component to fetal neurology. This article provides an overview of the MRI methods used for fetal neurologic evaluation, focusing on normal and abnormal early brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mailath-Pokorny
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vienna, Austria.
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22
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Abstract
Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) on clinical scanners has increasingly been realized as a powerful imaging tool and applied for studying the brain abnormalities and the potential of neurodevelopmental disabilities in vivo. The primarily used multi-echo fast imaging sequences reduce the motion artifacts with a tradeoff of image Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and resolution. In Radio Frequency (RF) hardware for MR signal excitation and reception, there are lack of dedicated RF coils for fetal imaging providing optimized performance in acquisition and safety. There is an urgent demand for novel hardware and fast imaging technology developments to overcome motion artifacts and improve sensitivity and safety. Recent studies have demonstrated that dedicated fetal RF transceiver arrays can improve the SNR, image coverage, and safety. In addition, emerging fast imaging technologies such as parallel imaging and compressed sensing would be advantageous in improving imaging speed and thus reducing motion artifacts in fetal imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Li
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Xiaoliang Zhang
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- UC Berkeley/UCSF Joint Graduate Group in Bioengineering, Berkeley & San Francisco, CA, USA
- California Institute for Quantitative Biosciences (QB3), University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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24
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Auditory evoked potential P50 as a predictor of neurologic outcome in resuscitated cardiac arrest patients. J Clin Neurophysiol 2011; 28:302-7. [PMID: 21633256 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0b013e31821c2fdd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In general, a prediction of neurologic outcome with respect to the resuscitated cardiac arrest patients has been performed by the auditory brainstem response and somatic evoked potential. The auditory brainstem response and somatic evoked potential are known as the predictors that correspond to neurologically poor outcome. None of the methods have been established to access neurologically good outcome. Because the hippocampal CA3 pyramidal cells have been widely used for pathophysiologic analyses concerning the hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and also the source of P50 components of the auditory evoked potential has been considered to be the hippocampal CA3 pyramidal cells, the authors assume that it might be possible that neurologic outcome in resuscitated cardiac arrest patients would be predicted by evaluating the P50 components. The purpose was to examine the P50 as a predictor of neurologic outcome in resuscitated cardiac arrest patients at the early stage from the onset. The P50 components of the auditory evoked potential are recorded in a conditioning-testing paradigm, that is, EEG responses to a pair of auditory stimuli with 500-millisecond interclick interval. In this study, subjects are 10 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients, 8 men and 2 women with a mean age of 54.8 years, who were admitted to the intensive care unit after the return of spontaneous circulation, with the presence of both the auditory brainstem response wave V and the somatic evoked potential wave N20 between the period from June 2008 to July 2009. It was found that the presence of the P50 at the early stage from the onset (days 5 ± 1.20) indicates good neurologic outcome, while the absence of the P50 implies poor prognosis. As to the auditory sensory gating of the P50, almost no reduction response to the second stimulus was observed. As a consequence, the evaluation of the P50 in resuscitated cardiac arrest patients would have a possibility to predict neurologically good outcome.
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Buhk JH, Frisch M, Yamamura J, Graessner J, Adam G, Wedegärtner U. High-resolution in utero 3D MR imaging of inner ear microstructures in fetal sheep. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2011; 32:2043-6. [PMID: 22033721 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a2736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Developmental inner ear abnormalities can occur due to embryopathies as well as in the context of syndromal diseases like the CHARGE association. In severe cases, an early and definite in utero diagnosis is important for decision-making; here, fetal MR imaging can be a helpful tool. We present results of performing high-resolution MR imaging of the inner ear structures of fetal sheep in vivo. METHODS AND MATERIALS Six ewes carrying singleton fetuses (mean gestational age, 120 days) were examined under general anesthesia at 1.5T. A 3D true FISP sequence with isotropic voxel size (0.7 mm) was applied; acquisition time was 2:35 minutes. For a standard of reference, 1 stillborn lamb of equivalent gestation age was examined. Image analysis was performed in consensus by 2 radiologists regarding the depiction of anatomic landmarks on a 5-point scale. Motion artifacts were quantified on a 3-point scale. RESULTS The turns and modiolus of the cochlea as well as the origins of all 3 semicircular canals of the vestibular system of both sides could be reliably identified in every animal. Motion artifacts due to maternal breathing excursions or movements of the fetus were minimal. In case of breech presentation, the ventilation of the ewe had to be paused during the image acquisition to achieve acceptable results. CONCLUSIONS High-resolution intrauterine MR imaging of the inner ear microstructures in an animal model is feasible. However, the acquisition time of the sequence applied is still too long to perform such measurement in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-H Buhk
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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26
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Berry GT. Is prenatal myo-inositol deficiency a mechanism of CNS injury in galactosemia? J Inherit Metab Dis 2011; 34:345-55. [PMID: 21246399 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-010-9260-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2010] [Revised: 11/23/2010] [Accepted: 11/26/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Classic Galactosemia due to galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase (GALT) deficiency is associated with apparent diet-independent complications including cognitive impairment, learning problems and speech defects. As both galactose-1-phosphate and galactitol may be elevated in cord blood erythrocytes and amniotic fluid despite a maternal lactose-free diet, endogenous production of galactose may be responsible for the elevated fetal galactose metabolites, as well as postnatal CNS complications. A prenatal deficiency of myo-inositol due to an accumulation of both galactose-1- phosphate and galactitol may play a role in the production of the postnatal CNS dysfunction. Two independent mechanisms may result in fetal myo-inositol deficiency: competitive inhibition of the inositol monophosphatase1 (IMPA1)-mediated hydrolysis of inositol monophosphate by high galactose-1- phosphate levels leading to a sequestration of cellular myo-inositol as inositol monophosphate and galactitol-induced reduction in SMIT1-mediated myo-inositol transport. The subsequent reduction of myo-inositol within fetal brain cells could lead to inositide deficiencies with resultant perturbations in calcium and protein kinase C signaling, the AKT/mTOR/ cell growth and development pathway, cell migration, insulin sensitivity, vescular trafficking, endocytosis and exocytosis, actin cytoskeletal remodeling, nuclear metabolism, mRNA export and nuclear pore complex regulation, phosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins, protein phosphorylation and/or endogenous iron "chelation". Using a knockout animal model we have shown that a marked deficiency of myo-inositol in utero is lethal but the phenotype can be rescued by supplementing the drinking water of the pregnant mouse. If myo-inositol deficiency is found to exist in the GALT-deficient fetal brain, then the use of myo-inositol to treat the fetus via oral supplementation of the pregnant female may warrant consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard T Berry
- Division of Genetics, Children's Hospital Boston, Center for Life Sciences Building, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
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27
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Abstract
Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become established as part of clinical practice in many centres worldwide especially when visualization of the central nervous system pathology is required. In this review we summarize the recent literature and provide an overview of fetal development and the commonly encountered fetal pathologies visualized with MRI and illustrated with numerous MR images. We aim to convey the role of fetal MRI in clinical practice and its value as an additional investigation alongside ultrasound yet emphasize the need for caution when interpreting fetal MR images especially where experience is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roobin P Jokhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jessop Wing, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
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García Silva MT. [Brain creatine defects: how can these uncommon diseases be diagnosed and their evolution changed]. Med Clin (Barc) 2009; 133:752-3. [PMID: 19880147 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2009.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2009] [Accepted: 09/07/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Chitty LS, Pilu G. The challenge of imaging the fetal central nervous system: an aid to prenatal diagnosis, management and prognosis. Prenat Diagn 2009; 29:301-2. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.2242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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