The Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR) at the University of Minnesota has teamed up with BrainSpec, a business that develops next-generation imaging technology, to introduce AutoVOI, a proprietary pipeline for automated voxel placement in MR spectroscopy, to the general public. Through an exclusive licensing agreement managed by the University’s Technology Commercialization office, the collaboration is set to simplify a highly technical process and make MR spectroscopy more accessible to researchers and clinicians.
MR spectroscopy is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures the chemical composition of brain tissue. Unlike standard MRI scans that reveal brain structure, MR spectroscopy provides biochemical insights, often highlighting conditions that remain invisible in structural imaging. A key step in this process involves defining a “Volume of Interest” (VOI), or voxel placement, to identify the specific brain region for data collection. Traditionally, this task is performed manually, requiring expertise and often intimidating those unfamiliar with imaging protocols.
AutoVOI, developed by CMRR’s Spectroscopy Division, automates and enhances voxel placement. By improving accuracy and reproducibility, it reduces variability across users and scans, ultimately supporting more consistent results. Comparable to a GPS guiding drivers to their destination, AutoVOI relies on established landmarks to guide researchers to precise brain regions, eliminating the need for advanced technical knowledge. This innovation opens MR spectroscopy to a wider audience, ensuring that more studies benefit from consistent, reliable brain chemistry data.
Dr. Gülin Öz, a professor of radiology at the University of Minnesota and the director of the CMRR Spectroscopy Division, stated that AutoVOI is a significant development in MR spectroscopy technology. “This collaboration makes advanced neuroimaging more accessible and helps researchers generate high-quality, reproducible data that can inform better treatments.”
BrainSpec complements AutoVOI with advanced signal processing that measures metabolite levels across the brain over time, producing multidimensional datasets. By integrating these with AI, BrainSpec delivers a comprehensive web-based platform that provides richer insights into brain chemistry, supporting both researchers and clinicians.
Alex Zimmerman, CEO and Co-founder of BrainSpec, emphasized the impact of the partnership: “We’re thrilled to work with Dr. Öz and the exceptional team at CMRR. AutoVOI lowers barriers to entry, paving the way for broader research discoveries today and seamless clinical adoption in the future.”
Together, BrainSpec and CMRR are pushing the boundaries of non-invasive brain imaging, transforming complex workflows into accessible tools that accelerate discovery and expand the reach of MR spectroscopy in advancing neurological research and care.
