DTI and NODDI to monitor treatment effect for stroke in middle cerebral artery occlusion mouse model

Motivation: Stroke is a serious medical condition that can lead to long-term disability and death, yet has limited treatment options. Goal(s): This study aims to identify effective diffusion MRI biomarkers in monitoring treatment response with a repurposed drug for stroke. Approach: In vivo diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) were performed on the mouse brain with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Mice were imaged on the 14T MR system on day 7 post-MCAO, following a 7-day treatment regimen with either Senicapoc or vehicle. Results: Certain DTI and NODDI parameters were found to demonstrate strong treatment effect. Impact: Both DTI and NODDI maps may provide useful information in monitoring response to repurposed Senicapoc drug treatment for stroke.