QQ-based oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) mapping in mouse brain: Initial Experience

Motivation: Oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) is a direct biomarker for tissue viability. A novel OEF mapping technique, QQ, has shown potential by detecting disease-related OEF abnormalities. Although QQ-based OEF is promising for oxygen metabolism-related preclinical research, it has not yet been tested in animal brains. Goal(s): To apply QQ to mouse brains for the first time, examining its sensitivity to physiological OEF changes. Approach: Five mice underwent OEF processing at varying isoflurane levels to investigate the relationship between OEF and isoflurane levels. Results: QQ provided uniform OEF map in mice, with OEF decreasing as isoflurane increased, demonstrating QQ's sensitivity to physiological change. Impact: These findings validate QQ's application in mouse models, enabling detailed investigations into cerebral oxygen metabolism under various physiological and pathological conditions. Preclinical QQ-based OEF will therefore be highly beneficial for understanding disease mechanisms and treatment effects in neurologic disorders.