Mapping of Brain GABA Levels in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Using High-Resolution Proton MR Spectroscopic Imaging
Abstract
Tuberous sclerosis (TS) is an inherited disease that affects multiple organs within the body, including the brain. Symptoms may include seizures, as well as developmental and intellectual disabilities, which significantly impact daily living and quality of life. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, and reduced levels of GABA may be associated with seizure activity in TS. This project aims to develop the methodology to non-invasively map and quantify concentrations of brain GABA using commonly available 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners. The methodology will be used to compare brain GABA levels between individuals with TS and healthy control subjects. The aim of this study is to advance clinical trial readiness, so that brain GABA levels can be monitored in patients undergoing anti-seizure treatments. Images of brain GABA levels may also help doctors determine which brain regions are involved in seizure activity, which may assist in targeting these regions for treatment. This is a 3-year project. The first half will involve technique development on the MRI scanners, and the second half will use the methodology in a pilot study to determine brain GABA levels in patients with TS and healthy controls. This project will develop a new non-invasive imaging technique that will help understand the biochemical factors affecting seizure activity in patients with TS and may be useful in guiding and monitoring the effects of treatments for seizures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 10, 2021
- Source ID
- W81XWH2010819
Entities
People
- Doris Da May Lin
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University
- United States Army