Abstract #3402

Hu L, Sun Y, Pautler R

Mice that lack the hexosamidase b gene (hexb-/-) are a model of the lysosomal storage disease, Sandhoffs disease. In this study, we utilize diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate physiological changes in the hexb-/- mouse brain in terms of fluid diffusivity as a consequence of GM2 ganglioside and glycolipid accumulation. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in the cortex and striatum of the Hexb -/- mice and control mice at 3-4.5 months old were evaluated and verified with histology.