Multiscale Imaging and Integrative Biophysics (MiiB) Unit

Dan Benjamini, Ph.D ., Chief

The Multiscale Imaging and Integrative Biophysics (MiiB) Unit is dedicated to exploring associations between cognitive function, brain microstructure, and chemistry to deepen our understanding of brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our overarching goal is to map aging progression and its relationship with neurodegenerative diseases by developing and deploying innovative MRI techniques that can "drill down into the voxel," allowing for noninvasive characterization of cellular-level features.

The MiiB Unit integrates diffusion-relaxation multidimensional magnetic resonance imaging (MD-MRI) ex- and in-vivo, with complementary histological methods and proteomics. We draw upon expertise in physics, engineering, neuroscience, and computer science to uncover novel imaging biomarkers that can precisely map astrogliosis, axonal damage, and protein accumulation. Our strategy involves deriving chemical composition, meso- and microstructure from MD-MRI and correlating these with cognitive state and established neuroinflammation markers. This comprehensive approach helps illuminate key biological processes in AD pathogenesis and informs the development of new therapeutic strategies and behavioral interventions to reduce dementia risk. A central objective is to establish quantitative, noninvasive, in-vivo “histology” of the human brain, driving progress in understanding, diagnosing, and treating neurodegenerative diseases.