Swiss researchers image the brain’s metabolism to improve prediction of mental disorders

Swiss researchers have developed a new brain-imaging technique that maps the distribution of molecules involved in neuronal function, offering a possible route toward better prediction of mental disorders.

The method, called three-dimensional magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging, or 3D-MRSI, builds on the use of magnetic resonance imaging to study the brain’s structure and activity. MRI has helped researchers examine connections between brain regions and observe how some diseases affect them.

It has not, however, yet produced markers that can help diagnose a mental illness or identify people most likely to develop symptoms. Research published by a team from French-speaking Switzerland could begin to address that gap.

The technique allows scientists to observe the brain’s metabolic distribution in three dimensions. The work represents an initial step toward identifying biomarkers for mental disorders, although the material provided does not report a clinical diagnostic application.