An Interactive 3D Model of CNS Cross‐Sections and Sensory Pathways from Receptor to Cerebral Cortex

Abstract

BackgroundLearning cross‐sectional neuroanatomy is challenging. Nuclei may be distinct, but fiber tracts often have vague borders and change position, cross the midline and even change names. Nonetheless, understanding 3D spatial relations of nuclei and fiber tracts from receptor to cerebral cortex is crucial for interpreting clinical signs following CNS damage. Students of these relations often must rely on 2D images of cross‐sections and pathways. Such learning requires increased cognitive effort1. Since learning neuroanatomy of specimens with interactive 3D models results in higher scores on tests requiring spatial visualization and mental rotation2, we have developed an interactive virtual 3D model of CNS cross‐sections and somatosensory pathways extending from sensory receptors to sensory cerebral cortex.MethodsAlthough there are excellent virtual 3D models of brains, modeling pathways is more challenging due to the enormous scale of the human nervous system. Axons are only a few micrometers in diameter but extend for a meter or more, cross the midline and make multiple synaptic connections. Students must navigate the whole nervous system as well as a cellular level of detail ‐ and not get lost. Our virtual 3D model of brain cross‐sections and pathways was created with 3D design software 3DS Max®, Stingray® and Unity® (Autodesk and Unity Technologies). Images of the forebrain, brainstem and spinal cord (Digital Anatomy Collection©) are scaled to human CNS size and positioned at their approximate location in the body. Models of neuron cell bodies are placed in the dorsal root ganglia and sensory nuclei, and all are connected by axon fibers at each synapse of the pathway. The model is available for Windows® and McIntosh® computers, and students navigate and control label and object visibility using standard gaming controlsPilot ResultsFormer neuroanatomy student volunteers (n=12) were randomly divided into 2 groups to compare 2D study vs. 3D study of our model. Matched quizzes were administered before and after a study period. Questions were grouped as sensory, motor or non‐pathway dependent. Both groups improved after the study period, but the difference among groups was not significant. Students comments indicated that the use of the model was “minimally” helpful compared to class notes. They felt that more labeling and ability to see the effect of lesions would improve the model.Outcomes An interactive virtual 3D model of cross‐sections of the CNS with pathways was feasible. Students can use the model, but there was no significant effect between 2D vs. 3D groups. Improvements like labels and ability to see the effect of lesions may increase learning. A revised model with new features will be tested in Neuroanatomy Spring 2019. Support or Funding InformationThis work was supported by funding from the Northeastern University: Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning Through ResearchThis abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.