CEST and DT-MRI detected early brain changes due to nicotine use in mice

Motivation: In vivo detection of structural and metabolite alterations in the brain due to nicotine can provide insights into understanding brain damage and therapeutic efficacy. Goal(s): To investigate in vivo image-based biomarkers to measure brain alterations caused by nicotine. Approach: CEST and DT-MRI were performed in mice at baseline and after nicotine administration for 12 days. The qualitative MRI measures were computed and compared in multiple brain regions. Results: Fractional Anisotropy showed significant changes in multiple brain regions between pre- and post-nicotine administration. Increased glutamate and NOE exchange saturation transfer rates were observed in gray matter regions. Impact: The outcome of this study would provide in vivo image-based biomarkers to monitor brain alterations and improve our understanding of the effect of nicotine in various brain regions and therapeutic responses.