Kannie W. Y. Chan1,2, April M. Chow1,2,
L. Xiao1,2, Ed X. Wu1,2
1Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging and
Signal Processing, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR,
China; 2Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, The
University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
Hypothermia
has a profound effect on the protection of brain. However, its exact
mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Hypothermia induces changes in brain
metabolites. 1H-MRS can detect changes in metabolites and hence help us to
have a better understanding of hypothermia. Our data shows changes in several
metabolites in the cortex and thalamus. These metabolites are associated with
cascade of events that lead to neuroprotection and thermoregulation, which
are similar to ex vivo and microdialysis findings. This real time and site
specific monitor of metabolites at 7T gives insight into how hypothermia
protects the brain from various insults.