NAD+(H) Dynamics Using 31P Functional MRS in the Brain: Insights into Energy Metabolism Mechanisms during Visual Stimulation.

Motivation: Alterations in brain nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels, as observed in aging, neurodegenerative conditions, and psychiatric disorders, necessitate an in-depth exploration of NAD's functional dynamics. Goal(s): Investigating the feasibility of using 31P functional MRS (fMRS) at 7T to measure NAD+ dynamics during a visual stimulation task. Approach: 32 volunteers were measured using 31P fMRS at 7T, during exposure to an established visual stimulation task. Results: The present study provides evidence for the possibility of measuring NAD+ dynamics in the occipital lobe using 31P fMRS during a visual stimulation task. Furthermore, the use of denoising algorithms may boost sensitivity to detect functional changes. Impact: Functional 31P MR Spectroscopy could contribute to complex cognitive and clinical studies, investigating energy metabolism deficits. Eventually, this knowledge could contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting brain energy deficits associated with neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairments.