Core Center for Quantitative Neuroscience with Magnetic Resonance

The central role for magnetic resonance (MR) in neuroscience research is expanding rapidly. The Core Center for Quantitative Neuroscience with Magnetic Resonance (QNMR), which is being supported by NINDS funding, brings together a multi-disciplinary group of neuroscientists at Yale who utilize novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) techniques for their research. Over the last 10 years, MRI and MRS methods have improved in providing functional information with high spatial resolution. Therefore MR, in conjunction with electrophysiology, and optical imaging, is poised to continue making major contributions to quantitative neuroscience. An important focus of Core Center for QNMR is quantitative neuroimaging, which localizes functional specificity of neural ensemble activities. State-of-the-art multi-modal MRI, heteronuclear MRS, electrophysiology and optical imaging methodologies cultivated by on-going efforts of Core Center for QNMR have created a central role for in vivo rodent brain research in experimental neuroscience.

Fundamental results with far reaching implications for brain function shape the research program:

• Columnar-level imaging of sensory models
• Neurophysiological and neurochemical basis of brain imaging
• Quantitative approaches towards interpreting functional imaging data
• Energetic costs associated with neuronal and astrocytic functions
• Relationship between neurotransmission and neuroenergetics
• Rates of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission