Addressing the Understudied via MRS: Repetitive Neurotrauma in Women Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

Motivation: Intimate partner violence (IPV) leads to brain injuries (BIs) in women, yet the neurobiological impact is less studied than in male-dominated BI contexts. This study uses magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to address this gap. Goal(s): To examine metabolic changes in IPV-related BIs, focusing on neurometabolites like glutathione (GSH) and N-acetylaspartate (NAA) in relation to injury and strangulation severity. Approach: Using MRS with the HERCULES sequence, we assessed neurometabolites in the posterior cingulate gyrus of 29 women, applying parametric and non-parametric tests. Results: Higher GSH in the BI group suggests oxidative stress adaptation; NAA showed potential decreases. No significant differences appeared in strangulation analyses. Impact: This research showcases the unique application of advanced MRS techniques in an understudied population, underscoring the critical need for gender-specific studies in repetitive neurotrauma.