Three-Dimensional In vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of Mouse Facial Nerve Regeneration
Frontiers in Neurology, 2019 · DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00310 · Published: April 2, 2019
Simple Explanation
This study focuses on using MRI to visualize and monitor the regeneration of the facial nerve in mice after injury, without using contrast agents. The researchers developed a high-resolution MRI protocol to image even very small nerves, like the mouse facial nerve, over a period of three weeks after injury. The MRI scans showed changes in the nerve, such as increased signal intensity and size, at the injury site, which correlated with the recovery of nerve function.
Key Findings
- 1Nerve injury caused hyperintense signal in T2-weighted images, and an increase in nerve size of the proximal and distal nerve stumps were observed.
- 2Longitudinal MR representation of facial nerve lesions correlated well with physiological recovery of nerve function by quantifying whisker movement.
- 3A novel protocol in rodents allows for non-invasive, non-contrast agent enhanced, high-resolution MR imaging of small peripheral nerves longitudinally over several weeks.
Research Summary
Practical Implications
Diagnostic Tool
MRI can be used as a diagnostic tool for peripheral nerve injuries.
Post-Surgery Monitoring
MRI can be used as a follow-up tool to monitor peripheral nerve injuries in humans.
Clinical Translation
Novel high-resolution MRI protocols established in a rodent model system bear immediate translational potential to the clinics.
Study Limitations
- 1The study only analyzed 3 weeks after injury.
- 2Molecular nature and specificity of MRI signal changes are debated.
- 3Functional nerve regeneration was far from complete.