Research

The Animal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Core specializes in cardiovascular imaging of mice and rats. We perform all aspects of imaging studies from planning to data analysis and interpretation. We work with investigators to tailor imaging studies to individual study needs. Cardiac function and anatomy, stress testing and vascular imaging are examples of studies performed in the Core; we perform a variety of studies in addition to cardiac imaging. A full list follows. The Core staff facilitates implementation of imaging studies for investigators and teaches interested investigators and fellows. The Core can also incorporate additional imaging modalities through the MIF, such as computed tomography (CT), ultrasound and bioluminescence. Studies are performed in the NIH Mouse Imaging Facility (MIF).

Although the Core is primarily concerned with projects related to cardiovascular imaging in rodents, the team has also worked on more specialized applications, particularly in high resolution microimaging.

Representative studies:

• Cine imaging for cardiac function
• Left and right ventricle function (ejection fraction and related parameters), volume, and wall thickness
• Myocardial infarction imaging
• Imaging the aorta, pulmonary artery and other vasculature
• Imaging atherosclerotic plaque
• Perfusion of skeletal muscle
• Kidney imaging
• Whole body imaging to screen for other defects
• Cellular imaging: magnetic labeling and tracking cell transplants
• Targeted MRI contrast agent research
• High resolution imaging of embryos
• High resolution imaging of fixed tissue
• Imaging fibrosis in unfixed heart tissue
• Delayed contrast enhancement imaging