Towards in vivo detection of bioimaging marker of neurogenesis process in murine embryo brain

Motivation: In vivo monitoring of neurogenesis process during embryonic development would aid in understanding brain formation, diagnosing developmental disorders, and testing therapeutic strategies. Goal(s): To demonstrate the feasibility of combining 1H-MRS and CEST-MRI for specific in vivo detection of neurogenesis-linked oleic acid in a mouse embryo brain. Approach: In vivo 1H-MRS and CEST MRI were performed on normal mouse brain at gestation day 17.5, and post-natal days 14, and 21. Results: 1H-MRS detected overlapping peaks of lactate and oleic acid in vivo. CEST-MRI demonstrated feasibility to infer Lactate concentration in the region of interest, thus leading to oleic acid quantification. Impact: Successful implementation of novel algorithm developed using complementary strength of 1H-MRS and CEST MRI to monitor oleic acid levels during embryonic development will provide a non-invasive tool that has a potential to elucidate the neurogenesis process.