Work

Bridging mesoscopic and microscopic scales in multiple sclerosis: Post mortem brain block multi-contrast 9.4T MRI and histology quantification

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Combining ex vivo MRI mesoscopic and histopathology microscopic assessments of tissue microstructure forms a key approach in multiple sclerosis (MS) research for elucidating disease pathogenesis. We present a protocol that enables reproducible, scalable, and robust integration of MRI and histology data in MS brains. We describe steps for (1) obtaining high-resolution multi-contrast 9.4T MRI of postmortem brain blocks and (2) the usage of a custom, open-source image processing interface for robust histology-MRI registration and semi-quantitative mapping of myelin density, microglia, and cell count. • Procedures for acquisition of 9.4T MRI on postmortem brain blocks • Instructions for deriving myelin, microglia, and cell density maps from IHC • Instructions for co-registration of MRI contrasts and histology-derived maps Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Combining ex vivo MRI mesoscopic and histopathology microscopic assessments of tissue microstructure forms a key approach in multiple sclerosis (MS) research for elucidating disease pathogenesis. We present a protocol that enables reproducible, scalable, and robust integration of MRI and histology data in MS brains. We describe steps for (1) obtaining high-resolution multi-contrast 9.4T MRI of postmortem brain blocks and (2) the usage of a custom, open-source image processing interface for robust histology-MRI registration and semi-quantitative mapping of myelin density, microglia, and cell count.

Source: STAR Protocols

DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2025.104203