In vivo animal NMR studies using implantable micro coil

This study aims at developing in vivo exploration based on NMR (Imaging and Spectroscopy) using implantable micro coils ldquoNeedle coilsrdquo. Analysis of highly localized tissue of few nanolitres with this ldquominimardquo invasive method is possible. Reinforced by acquisition and signal processing methodology, it aims at pushing the limits of in vivo detection, thus opening the way to a number of biomedical applications. To the best of our knowledge, no in vivo study has been done with such ldquohigh-tech micro coilsrdquo. Axial MRI slices, allow measurements of the lesion dimensions, compared to the micro coil size and to stereotaxic coordinates determined with the rat atlas and histological control. These first results validate the reproducibility of micro coil implantation under stereotaxic conditions, the biocompatibility aspect and the good micro coil performance in situ. This micro system offers the possibility of new investigation techniques with chronic implantation based on micro coils used for in vivo study of local cerebral metabolites occupying a small volume.