C03471: Fiber Reconstruction Method using MRI DataNovelty:
The current invention is a method to track brain fibers using MRI imaging.
Value Proposition:
Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a method to quantify the orientation of brain fibers using MRI. In a region where axons are aligned, water will diffuse preferentially in a direction parallel to the axons. The start and end points of fibers can be found by observing large changes in fiber direction. The software used to analyze the MRI data may be run on a standard PC.
Technical Details:
In order to understand the relationships between multiple cortical regions, it is important to analyze their physical connectivity. The white matter fibers in the brain are essential in linking different functional regions, but currently cannot be examined non-invasively. Conventional MR imaging can distinguish between white and grey matter, but provides no information about fiber orientation in white matter. The current invention uses Diffusion-weighted MRI to produce in vivo mapping of axons. The invention has the following advantages:
• Uses standard MRI imaging procedures and equipment to determine fiber properties
• Represents fiber orientation in orthogonal principle directions
• Determines start and end point of fibers
Looking for Partners:
Diagnostic radiology
Stage of Development:
Pre-Clinical
Data Availability:
Under CDA/NDA
Publications/Associated Cases:
Not available at this time
