Influence of Infusion Location, Rate, and Anesthesia on CSF Tracer Dynamics in Mouse Brain

Motivation: To comprehensively understand how tracer infusion and anesthesia impact tracer transport in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Goal(s): To compare differences in transport dynamics and distribution patterns of Gd-DTPA under different infusion conditions and anesthetics. Approach: The kinetics and distribution of Gd-DPTA were assessed by DCE-MRI following its infusion at different intra cisterna-magna (ICM) infusion rates (1 μL/min for 10 min versus 0.33 μL/min for 30 min), under different anesthetics (isoflurane versus K/X), and into different locations (ICM versus intraventricular, ICV). Results: While anesthesia is crucial, infusion location and infusion rate are also key factors impacting transport pathways and kinetics. Impact: This study investigated the impact of infusion location, rate, and anesthesia on Gd-DTPA transport dynamics and distribution patterns across the whole brain, providing insights into CSF transport pathways and regulation in the brain.