Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Gastric Motility in Conscious Rats

Abstract

Introduction: Gastrointestinal (GI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables simultaneous assessment of gastric peristalsis, emptying, and intestinal filling and transit. However, GI MRI in animals typically requires anesthesia, which complicates physiology and confounds interpretation and translation to humans. This study aimed to establish GI MRI in conscious rats, and for the first time, characterize GI motor functions in awake versus anesthetized conditions. Methods: Fourteen Sprague–Dawley rats were acclimated to remain awake, still, and minimally stressed during MRI. GI MRI was performed under both awake and anesthetized conditions following voluntary consumption of a contrast-enhanced..