Currently there are no tools to study simultaneously whole-brain processing and behavior in rats. Here we introduce a novel approach for fMRI studies in head-fixed and minimally restrained rats that can express behavior. This was achieved with MB-SWIFT sequence that is both quiet and insensitive to movement. First, the whole brain, including hindbrain, was functionally parcellated with high fidelity. Second, fMRI maps showing activation in relevant networks during spontaneous single behavioral events were successfully generated. Our approach links global network activity to behavior and has potential to enable novel experimental designs in neuroscience studies.
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