Simultaneous imaging of cerebral partial pressure of oxygen and blood flow during functional activation and cortical spreading depression

Appl Opt. 2009 Apr 1;48(10):D169-77. doi: 10.1364/ao.48.00d169.

Abstract

We developed a novel imaging technique that provides real-time two-dimensional maps of the absolute partial pressure of oxygen and relative cerebral blood flow in rats by combining phosphorescence lifetime imaging with laser speckle contrast imaging. Direct measurement of blood oxygenation based on phosphorescence lifetime is not significantly affected by changes in the optical parameters of the tissue during the experiment. The potential of the system as a novel tool for quantitative analysis of the dynamic delivery of oxygen to support brain metabolism was demonstrated in rats by imaging cortical responses to forepaw stimulation and the propagation of cortical spreading depression waves. This new instrument will enable further study of neurovascular coupling in normal and diseased brain.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cerebral Cortex / blood supply
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation*
  • Cortical Spreading Depression / physiology*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Forelimb / physiology
  • Laser-Doppler Flowmetry
  • Luminescent Measurements
  • Oxygen / blood*
  • Partial Pressure
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley

Substances

  • Oxygen