Neuroimaging

In our group we try to describe the changes that take place during the development of so-called acquired epilepsy. I focus mainly on changes in energy metabolism and cerebral perfusion. We are trying to translate the knowledge that my colleagues and I are gaining into clinical practice. We focus on improving the diagnosis of epilepsy using imaging methods, especially magnetic resonance imaging. In close collaboration with the Imaging Methods Clinic, the Neurology Clinic, and the Department of Child Neurology, we are validating for clinical practice the assessment of non-Gaussian diffusion (DKI), perfusion (DSC, pcASL) blood-brain barrier permeability (DCE, DEBBIE ASL), and newly electrical properties of tissue (MR-EPT). We are developing post-processing methods and implementing modern techniques including artificial intelligence algorithms.

In our latest publications, we explore, among other topics, microstructural changes in brain white matter neuronal tracts in epilepsy and the use of advanced diffusion imaging to improve the localization of epileptic foci in epilepsy surgery.

 

 

Our group studies the electrical properties of brain tissue, such as electrical conductivity. These properties are linked to cells function and may reveal subtle changes that occur in epilepsy, as well as in other brain disorders, including stroke, brain tumours and inflammatory diseases.

Our goal is to develop and test new imaging methods that can measure these properties non-invasively using magnetic resonance imaging. This work is carried out in collaboration with the Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKEM) and the Faculty of Biomedical Engineering of the Czech Technical University in Prague. Together, we are helping to develop new measurement technologies and bring them closer to clinical use.

By studying the electrical properties of brain tissue, we hope to improve diagnosis and gain a deeper understanding of how the brain changes during disease. In the long term, this knowledge may help support more accurate and personalised treatment for patients.

We also study ischemic stroke and its complications, particularly hemorrhagic transformation, when bleeding develops in previously ischemic brain tissue. This is an important complication that can affect both patient outcomes and the safety of reperfusion therapy.

Our research focuses on understanding why some areas of the brain become more vulnerable after stroke and why bleeding may occur after blood flow is restored. We are particularly interested in changes in the blood-brain barrier, microvascular function and brain perfusion during the acute phase of stroke and after reperfusion.

To study these processes, we use advanced imaging methods, especially magnetic resonance imaging, including perfusion techniques and approaches that allow us to assess the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. In collaboration with clinical departments of Motol Hospital, we evaluate quantitative imaging markers related to perfusion, permeability and the extent of ischemic injury.

Our aim is to identify early imaging predictors of hemorrhagic transformation and to help translate these findings into clinical practice. In the long term, this research may support better patient stratification, safer use of reperfusion therapy and more personalised care for patients with stroke.

 

We use in vitro neural cell cultures, including neurons and glial cells, to study the biological effects of selected candidate molecules. We examine how these compounds affect cell viability and morphology, oxidative stress, cytotoxicity and their potential neuroprotective effects.

We also perform proteomic analyses, which allow us to better understand how selected compounds act in models of neurological diseases, including epilepsy, neurodegeneration, neuroinflammation and demyelinating disorders.

Our in vivo experimental research platform combines advanced imaging and electrophysiological methods to study disorders of the nervous system and to evaluate potential therapeutic approaches. We use technologies such as multiphoton microscopy, micro-MRI, CT-PET, EEG and laser Doppler velocimetry, allowing us to observe changes in brain activity, tissue morphology and vascular supply in detail and in real time.

Our research focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying epilepsy, stroke, neurodegeneration and other disorders of the central nervous system.