Visual deficits in a late-stage Parkinson’s Disease mouse model revealed by functional MRI and validated by C-FOS expression and CBF measurements

Motivation: The involvement of the brain’s sensory systems in PD is poorly understood and visual deficits are often a complex and underappreciated aspect of the disease. Goal(s): The goal of this study is to study the visual deficits in the PD mouse line by using fMRI, C-FOS expression and CBF. Approach: Here we report aberrations in BOLD-fMRI responses along the visual pathway in mouse model of PD and validate via C-FOS protein expression and ASL. Results: Our findings revealed decreased activity in the visual areas, decreased C-FOS confirmed the neural origin, and the ASL excluded any vascular differences that could alter the fMRI signals. Impact: Many individuals with PD experience a decline in visual acuity. Thus, understanding and addressing visual deficits in Parkinson's disease is crucial for improving the overall well-being and daily functioning of individuals living with this condition.