BrainSpec and University of Minnesota Collaborate to Advance Automation in MR Spectroscopy with AutoVOI

The enhancement of virtual biopsy technology automates traditional manual methods of selecting regions of the brain for Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

BOSTON, Sept. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BrainSpec, a company developing next-generation imaging technology, has collaborated with the University of Minnesota's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR) to commercialize AutoVOI, a patented pipeline that automates voxel placement in Magnetic Resonance (MR) spectroscopy. Through an exclusive license agreement managed by University of Minnesota Technology Commercialization, BrainSpec aims to simplify MR spectroscopy by reducing the technical complexity and bringing cutting edge technology to a wider audience.

MR spectroscopy is a non-invasive imaging method that measures the chemical composition of brain tissue. Unlike traditional MRI, which shows the structure of the brain, MR spectroscopy provides information about the brain's biochemistry, offering insights into conditions that may not be visible on structural scans.

In certain spectroscopy studies, users must define a specific region of the brain for data collection – a step known as selecting a "Volume of Interest" (VOI). This process of voxel placement is typically done manually, but it can intimidate users without experience or familiarity with imaging protocols. For those new to MR spectroscopy, this step can present a barrier to entry.

Developed by the Spectroscopy Division at CMRR, AutoVOI automates and improves the process of selecting brain regions for MRS, offering better precision and reproducibility. This helps reduce variation between scans and users, supporting more consistent data collection across studies.  This process enables a wider audience to utilize MR spectroscopy with more consistent results. A useful analogy is modern car navigation: instead of relying on personal directions, AutoVOI is like GPS for brain imaging – it sets the coordinates based on known landmarks, guiding users to the right location without requiring advanced knowledge of the terrain. AutoVOI's automation enables broader use of MR Spectroscopy in research settings, helping researchers acquire more consistent and reliable brain chemistry data for further analysis.

"AutoVOI represents a major advancement in MR spectroscopy technology," said Dr. Gülin Öz, Director of the Spectroscopy Division of the CMRR and Professor of Radiology at the University of Minnesota. "This collaboration allows us to make advanced neuroimaging tools more accessible, supporting researchers in generating high-quality, reproducible data that can drive new insights into better treatments."

BrainSpec uses advanced signal processing methods to measure relative metabolite levels across the brain and over time, generating rich multidimensional data. By feeding this data into AI, BrainSpec offers a comprehensive, web-based solution for analyzing MRS data to provide clinicians with richer insights into brain chemistry.

"We're excited to collaborate with Dr. Öz and the world-class team at CMRR, leaders in advancing the frontiers of brain imaging. This work reflects a shared commitment to turning cutting-edge innovation into practical tools," said Alex Zimmerman, CEO and Co-founder of BrainSpec. "AutoVOI removes barriers, setting the stage for broader discovery today and seamless clinical adoption tomorrow."

About BrainSpec
BrainSpec is a comprehensive software and AI platform designed to make Magnetic Resonance (MR) spectroscopy technology accessible to clinicians and researchers alike. The software combines a linear combinations model based post-processing back-end that represents the most accurate method of measuring brain metabolites with a highly intuitive interface making MR spectroscopy as simple to interpret as a blood test. This combination allows for high analytical performance while maintaining ease of use. Together, this results in reduced case processing time, leading to higher output and lower costs. To learn more visit https://brainspecmed.com/.

About University of Minnesota's Center for Magnetic Resonance Research 
Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR), funded as a Biotechnology Research Center (BTRC) by the National Center for Research Resources (NCRR) until 2012 and by the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) since then, focuses on development of unique magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and spectroscopy methodologies and instrumentation for the acquisition of structural, functional, and biochemical information non-invasively in humans, and utilizing this capability to investigate organ function in health and disease. CMRR is home to some of the most advanced MR instrumentation in the world, complemented by human resources that provide unique expertise in imaging physics, engineering, and signal processing. Please see: https://www.cmrr.umn.edu/about/

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SOURCE BrainSpec