Voltage-Sensitive Mri Myelographic Contrast Agents (14060)
- Detailed Technology Description
- None
- *Abstract
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Voltage-Sensitive Mri Myelographic Contrast Agents (14060)
Features and Benefits Summary
Novel, accurate means of enhancing Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) by directly detecting voltage responses using a contrast agent
May be advantageous in mapping of network responses in the brain
Could be utilized without crossing blood-brain barrier
*This Technology is available for licensing, further development, or industrial partnering*
Market Opportunities
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a functionalneuroimaging procedure that utilizes MRI technology to measure brain activitythrough the detection of changes in blood flow. Physicians can use fMRI as arisk assessment tool prior to brain surgery or to learn how a normal, diseasedor injured brain functions. This technique is useful in anatomically mappingthe brain and is able to detect the effects of tumors, strokes, head and braininjury or diseases affecting the brain, like Alzheimer’s. Currently fMRItechniques measure oxygen saturation or blood flow changes in the brain,however this requires intact autoregulation, making it difficult for use inpatients with vasospasm or epilepsy. Furthermore, there is demand for a moreaccurate means of fMRI detection that can produce accurately mapped brainactivity at a high resolution. U of L researchers are developing of avoltage-sensitive MRI myelographic contrast agent, which could address theseneeds.
Technology
Researchers at the University of Louisville have developed a new fMRIcontrast agent containing certain components to increase partitioning intolipid bilayers and detect voltage-sensitive responses. This agent would beextremely convenient for directly measuring electrical activity in the brainwithout having to cross the blood brain barrier. Through the developed agentsat U of L, there is the potential for a more effective fMRI that could provideadditional benefits and accuracy to the current standard of use.
Technology Status
- IP Status: Provisional Patent Application
- Development Status: Conducted Animal Testing
- Fields of Use Available: All
Researchers:
- Dr. Robert J. Bert
- Dr. Chin Ng
- Dr. Pawel Kozlowski
- Country/Region
- USA
