In this project, we will develop a commercial resource for the automated analysis of brain anatomy, based on MRI. This product is based on the whole-brain parcellation algorithm with the following unique features. First, it is based on a cutting-edge multi-atlas approach, in which we will incorporate rich atlas resources from Dr. Mori's lab at the Johns Hopkins University (JHU). Second, our multi-atlas approach is based on advanced diffeomorphic image transformation and multi-atlas probability fusion, recently developed by Dr. Miller at JHU. These CPU-intensive algorithms, combined with a large atlas inventory, require highly parallelized computational resources. We, therefore, will develop a fully portable and scalable cloud-based architecture, such that many users can have access at minimum costs. Third, we will develop a flexible architecture to define brain structures with multiple anatomical criteria, providing a very unique multi-granularity analysis, which provides an anatomy-centric and intuitive interface for clinical use. Fourth, we extend the analysis to diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) by incorporating a unique approach to multi-contrast image transformation and probability fusion. Last but not least, these algorithms can convert a set of multiple MR images to a quantitative and standardized Anatomical Matrix, which allows us to perform image data structurization, searching, and individualized analysis of anatomical phenotypes.
Aim 1 : To establish a cloud-based servicing architecture: We will develop a scalable and portable architecture for cloud-based computation. Parallel processing is required to achieve fast computation for the multi-atlas calculations. The algorithms accept DICOM data from four major vendors and apply a parcellation tool that identifies 254 brain structures.
Aim 2 : To establish a web-based interface for non-corporate users: To make our advanced image analysis tools widely available for research communities, we will create a web-based interface and provide the service at a minimum cost ($20/data).
Aim 3 : To implement a data visualization interface with ontology-based multi-granularity analysis: Our image analysis pipeline is a departure from conventional voxel-based automated analysis. Our structure-based analysis reduces the anatomical dimension to much lower scales. However, there are multiple ways to perform the structure-based information reduction. The ontology-based analysis provides a novel way to perform hierarchical anatomical interpretation of the structure-based analysis.
Aim 4 : To increase the number of atlases and cases in the database for interpretation support: Through the collaboration with JHU, we have access to a large inventory of research and clinical data, including controls and various patient groups. To create reference data, we will process these data and establish a background database, against which users can compare and interpret their data.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase II (R44)
Project #
5R44NS078917-03
Application #
8934185
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1)
Program Officer
Babcock, Debra J
Project Start
2012-09-01
Project End
2017-08-31
Budget Start
2015-09-01
Budget End
2017-08-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2015
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Anatomyworks, LLC
Department
Type
DUNS #
827126520
City
Baltimore
State
MD
Country
United States
Zip Code
21205