Magnetic resonance-based imaging in animal models of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder

Neuropsychol Rev. 2011 Jun;21(2):167-85. doi: 10.1007/s11065-011-9164-z. Epub 2011 Mar 29.

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, such as magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), have recently been applied to the study of both normal and abnormal structure and neurochemistry in small animals. Herein, findings from studies in which these methods have been used for the examination of animal models of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) are discussed. Emphasis is placed on results of imaging studies in fetal and postnatal mice that have highlighted the developmental stage dependency of prenatal ethanol exposure-induced CNS defects. Consideration is also given to the promise of methodological advances to allow in vivo studies of aberrant brain and behavior relationships in model animals and to the translational nature of this work.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Mapping
  • Brain* / embryology
  • Brain* / growth & development
  • Brain* / pathology
  • Developmental Disabilities / etiology*
  • Developmental Disabilities / pathology
  • Diagnostic Imaging / classification
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods
  • Disease Models, Animal*
  • Ethanol / toxicity
  • Facial Asymmetry / etiology
  • Facial Asymmetry / pathology
  • Female
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / etiology
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects / physiopathology*

Substances

  • Ethanol