Towards a multi-parametric MRI-based myelin marker in the developing mouse brain

Motivation: Although several myelin markers have been introduced using MRI, their ability to accurately detect myelin has been limited in sensitivity and specificity. Goal(s): MP-MRI shows promise in improving myelin mapping, but validating its effectiveness remains a challenge. Our aim is to create a MP-MRI indicator and verify its accuracy through 3D myelin histology. Approach: We compared myelin histology in MOBP-eGFP mouse brains, which exhibit enhanced myelination with various MRI markers in the same subjects. Results: We observed varying degrees of correlation between MRI markers and MOBP signals in different brain regions. Employing PLSR analysis revealed that MP-MRI has potential to enhance myelin mapping. Impact: The integration of multiple MRI markers in multiparametric MRI has the potential to improve our capacity for mapping myelin in the brain. A direct biomarker of myelin would be highly impactful for management of patients with MS and de/dysmyelinating disorders.