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New Biomarkers in neurodegenerative diseases: CEST MRI

Primary supervisor

David Wright

Co-supervisors


Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI provides images of molecular information and has recently been used for the detection of malignant brain tumors and the assessment of muscle tissue in cardiac infarction. Additionally, CEST has also been used to assess changes in a neurotransmitter -glutamate (Glu)- in both brain and spinal cord and has shown potential in a number of diseases including Alzheimer’s-like dementia, Parkinsonism and Huntington’s Disease and Motor neuron diseases.

Student cohort

Single Semester
Double Semester

Aim/outline

The objective of this project is to explore the potential of GluCEST as a biomarker of brain damage and compare it with other potential MRI biomarkers including diffusion-weighted imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. For more information contact supervisors (David.wright@monash.edu akram.zamani@monash.edu). Please note, the Wright group is based in the Neuroscience Department at the Alfred campus (99 Commercial rd, Melbourne 3004) 

URLs/references

https://www.monash.edu/medicine/ccs/neuroscience/research/wright-group

Required knowledge

Python, Matlab