Hybrid MR/near infrared imaging of the murine brain: optimization of optical fiber arrangement and use of a-priori knowledge

In this work we will present our initial study into the use of hybrid MRI/Near Infrared (NIR) imaging system and the reconstruction algorithm for the murine head. We will show that the arrangement of optical fibers on one side of the head, near the brain, will provide more information about optical changes within the brain. Also, we will show that by the use of a-priori information from MRI and appropriate constraints within our reconstruction algorithm it is possible to improve the quality of image reconstruction.