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Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Overview
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is an area of growing interest for researchers around the world. This relatively new method for studying brain function presents many opportunities to advance understanding of how the brain is organized. It is also proving to be a useful tool for assessing neurological status.
Using fMRI technology, scientists can determine which part of the central nervous system (CNS: brain and spinal cord) is active during a given task.
The focus of fMRI research in the Magnetic Resonance Research and Technology Development Program is to develop brain and spinal cord imaging techniques and create a foundation for the application of fMRI to medicine.
How fMRI Works:
The blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) fMRI technique takes advantage of the fact that the oxygenation state of hemoglobin affects its magnetic properties. Brain regions that are active require more oxygen. Oxygen is delivered by increasing the blood flow to these active brain regions. Scientists compare the differences in blood flow between a resting condition and an active condition to find regions that are associated with one task and not the other. They are then able to detect these differences with MRI because there is a difference in the magnetization properties of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. These functional images are very powerful means by which neuroscientists gain insight into the working brain.
At NRC-IBD, scientists in the Magnetic Resonance Technology Group are using fMRI to study pain, autism, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
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Read more about Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Overview:
Related Projects:
- Cardiac MRI
- Grain/teeth MRI
- Magnetic Resonance Technology Development
- Molecular Imaging - MR
- Stroke - MRI
