Probing the neurometabolic changes associated with hypoxia induced alterations in perfusion

WIN-MRS organised special seminar

Probing the neurometabolic changes associated with hypoxia induced alterations in perfusion.  

Abstract: In 2017 we reported a paradoxical decrease in cerebral blood flow (CBF) in response to hypoxia within the posterior cingulate cortex, and then in 2021 we found an apparent hypoxia induced reversal of neurovascular coupling within this region. Since then we have been further investigating this phenomenon,  using magnetic resonance spectroscopy based techniques. I will describe three recent experiments by my PhD Student Matthew Rogan further exploring the neurometabolic alterations associated with this decrease in CBF the PCC during hypoxia.

Bio

Director of the Bangor Imaging Centre in the School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, home to a research dedicated 3T whole body MRI system used for functional and structural imaging studies. 

Liaising with researchers from the College of Human Sciences on study design, data acquisition and processing and resources available to help with their research questions, my aim is to keep the Bangor Imaging Unit a world-class center for neuroimaging research in North Wales.

My personal research falls into three broad areas: development and validation of MRS techniques for the detection of neurotransmitters; the use of these techniques to measure changes associated with neurotransmission and neural activity in health and disease; and the use of magnetic resonance imaging to investigate basic neurologic and physiologic processes in health and disease. My current ongoing research however is focused on two of these areas: the study of functional neurochemical changes through the use of functional magnetic resonance spectroscopy (fMRS); and measurement of changes in cerebral physiology and blood flow.