Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rhesus Macaque Monkeys

Citation

Dubowitz, David Julian (2002) Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rhesus Macaque Monkeys. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/JBRJ-AS69. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:01252012-103337039

Abstract

This thesis presents a method for functional magnetic resonance imaging in the brain of the rhesus macaque monkey, Macaca muialla. Experiments were performed in an awake-behaving animal at 1.5 T in a conventional clinical magnetic resonance system. Strategies to train the animal within the MR environment and to ensure behavioral compliance are described. Limitations of studying macaque functional neuroanatomy at this magnetic field strength are also discussed. Methods to improve signal-to-noise beyond the scope of conventional BOLD imaging at 1.5 T are presented, including the use of very high magnetic fields for functional imaging (11.7 T), as well as novel methods to improve sensitivity using intravascular iron oxide contrast media. Using the techniques developed for this thesis, a series of studies are presented to examine the visual pathways in the primate brain, allowing direct comparison of functional neuroanatomy between nonhuman primates and human cortex. Although the two species are anatomically different, direct functional homology within the visual cortex is demonstrated.

Thesis Files