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Probing tissue microstructures using diffusion MRI (21.3)
Author(s) -
Zhou X. Joe
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.28.1_supplement.21.3
Subject(s) - diffusion mri , computer science , human connectome project , connectome , magnetic resonance imaging , diffusion imaging , diffusion , neuroscience , brain tissue , human brain , biological system , functional connectivity , biology , physics , medicine , radiology , thermodynamics
There is mounting evidence indicating that diffusion in biological tissues exhibits a large degree of complexity depending on tissue type, cellular structures, and microenvironment. Measuring water molecular diffusion in vivo using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can thus provide a wealth of information on tissue structure and connectivity that are not accessible by other imaging modalities. Given the complexity of human brain structure and connectivity, the extent and accuracy of the information that can be exacted from diffusion MRI depend heavily on specific models. This presentation will review recent advances in a number of emerging diffusion models that relate diffusion MRI data with different aspects of brain tissue structure and connectivity. A specific model, known as the fractional order calculus model, which has been developed using an advanced mathematical tool, will be highlighted with data from the human brain to demonstration its ability to reveal tissue heterogeneity, microenvironment, cellular density, and connectivity. This model, together with others, can provide new insights into linking structure and function towards the connectome.