NODES_INNDIANA_D5.1_Report on the evaluation of contrast agents in animal model of MS

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the CNS marked by demyelination, axonal damage, and neuroinflammation. Despite therapeutic progress, key mechanisms of lesion development and progression remain unclear, as do early non-invasive biomarkers. This study uses the cuprizone mouse model—ideal for investigating demyelination without major immune involvement—and advanced MRI methods developed in collaboration with the University of Turin. Techniques such as CEST and MTC provide molecular-level insight into myelin integrity and water exchange, surpassing the limits of conventional MRI. The goal was to validate the cuprizone model and identify early MRI biomarkers of demyelination by studying changes in membrane water permeability and myelin content. Gadolinium-based contrast agents, combined with advanced MRI, further enable assessment of blood–brain barrier integrity and water dynamics.