Techniques in measuring Brain Function
- 2. Techniques in Studying the Brain
Brain imaging techniques
allow doctors and researchers
to view activity or problems
within the human brain,
without invasive
neurosurgery.
There are a number of
accepted, safe imaging
techniques in use today in
research facilities and
hospitals throughout the
world.
- 4. Brain Lesioning
Brain Lesioning may be
natural or artificial.
A brain lesion is an
abnormality seen on a brain-
imaging test, such as magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) or a
computerized tomography
(CT) scan. On CT or MRI
scans, brain lesions appear as
dark or light spots that don't
look like normal brain tissue.
- 5. Brain Staining
Staining the brain is a
technique used by
psychologists to pinpoint which
neurons are connected and
activated by each other.
Because neuronal membranes
contain ion channels that open
and close whenever a neuron is
activated, stains like horse dish
peroxidase enter these
channels and paint the path
neurotransmitters take to
transmit information to
neighboring neurons.
- 6. Brain Imaging
Neuroimaging or brain
imaging is the use of various
techniques to either directly
or indirectly image the
structure, function, or
pharmacology of the nervous
system.
It is a relatively new discipline
within medicine,
neuroscience, and psychology
- 8. Electroencephalograph (EEG)
An imaging technique used to
measure the electric fields in
the brain via electrodes placed
on the scalp.
EEG is a direct measurement
of neural electrical activity
with very high temporal
resolution but relatively low
spatial resolution.
- 9. Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
An imaging technique that
reveals the functions of the
brain.
The system detects pairs
of gamma rays emitted
indirectly by a positron-
emitting radionuclide (tracer),
which is introduced into the
body on a biologically active
molecule.
- 10. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Measures oxygen by groups of
neurons.
It represents a three
dimensional image of the
living brain.
MRI produces high resolution
images without exposing the
brain to radiation.
- 11. Computed Axial Tomography (CAT)
Uses a series of X-rays of the
head taken from different
directions.
This is used for quick
assessment of brain injuries.
- 12. Diffuse Optical Imaging (DOI)
Non-invasive techniques that
utilize light in the near infrared
spectral region to measure the
optical properties of
physiological tissue.
DOI have been applied in various
deep-tissue applications
including breast cancer imaging,
brain functional imaging, stroke
detection, muscle functional
studies, photodynamic therapy,
and radiation therapy
monitoring.
- 13. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
(FMRI)
Uses magnetic fields to
map brain activity by
measuring changes in the
brain blood supply during
various mental activities.