Atlas-based Analysis and Deformation-Based Morphometry of Structural MRI to Study Effects of Hypertension on Rat Brain Structure

Motivation: Hypertension (HTN) is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline, with a need to understand its effects on brain function and structure using animal models. Goal(s): We aim to investigate impact of HTN on the brain of transgenic Cyp1a1-Ren2 rats through atlas-based and deformation-based analysis of high-resolution structural MRI. Approach: Rats were divided into control and hypertensive groups. Structural MRI was carried out, upon which atlas-based analysis and deformation-based morphometry were performed. Results: Induced HTN significantly affected peripheral organs but showed no significant brain volume changes or cognitive differences. This suggests potential brain protection mechanisms against HTN, warranting further investigation. Impact: This research explores effects of hypertension on the brain using a rat model and structural MRI. Results show the brain appears resilient to induced hypertension compared to peripheral organs, highlighting need for investigation into protective mechanisms and their potential degradation.