The application of multi-modal fMRI to investigate coma induction induced by Endothelin-driven brainstem injury

Motivation: This study aimed to create a reproducible coma animal model and develop neuroimaging techniques to illustrate underlying mechanisms during coma induction. Goal(s): To investigate brain dynamic changes during coma induction and to identify the key regulatory brain regions involved in the process. Approach: We induced a brainstem coma in rats, optimizing surgical procedures and utilizing multi-modal fMRI techniques. We recorded Glu signals and BOLD fMRI simultaneously during coma induction. Results: The study revealed specific Glu-oscillations before coma induction and identified certain subcortical nuclei as potential key regulatory brain regions for inducing coma. These findings could enhance our understanding of coma-related brain state changes. Impact: The optimized coma model and multi-modal imaging techniques in this study offer a deeper understanding of coma dynamics. The identification of specific regulatory brain regions and Glutamate oscillations may pave the way for improved clinical strategies and patient outcomes.