Dr. Eichler currently has a KO8 award from the National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke (NINDS). The awarded project systematically analyzes metabolic and structural changes seen by MR measures prior to the onset of demyelination in both mouse and humans with leukodystrophies. This is significant because the tools of proton MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) allow us noninvasively to observe tissue changes that reflect the molecular sequence of events within brain white matter. The ability to monitor these events in vivo, at high spatial resolution, allow us to study the interplay of metabolite accumulation, structural changes and immune response. Moreover, early detection of defects in brain white matter will facilitate early treatment. 

Contact Information:

Clinical coordinator: Manashi Shanbhag
Tel: (617) 726-6093
Fax: (617) 724-7860

Clinic Address:
Massachusetts General Hospital
Yawkey Building 6B
32 Fruit Street

Mailing Address:
Florian Eichler, M.D.
Department of Neurology
Massachusetts General Hospital
55 Fruit Street, Wang Ambulatory Care Center, Suite 720
Boston, MA 02114