Neuroimaging Lab | NEURI LAB

Neuroimaging Lab

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)

Structural and functional systems of human brains have characteristics of complex networks. Numerous bra-in functions are associated with a specific brain region but are also often generated by interactions among multiple brain regions. Although a brain's structure is damaged by focal neurological disease, this damage influences functions of distant brain regions. The physiological influences of neurological disorders are better assessed over an entire network rather than the local site of damage.

In NEURI LAB, brain connectivity analysis using neuroimaging including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are used to understand the fundamental role of distributed neural networks, and to investigate changes in network structures. Using various neuroimaging-based approaches, we are investigating recovery mechanisms by examining brain network reorganization during recovery after neurologic disorders. Biomarkers for recovery prediction at subacute stage are being investigated to provide individually-tailored rehabilitation plans and to search target areas of noninvasive brain stimulation (NBS).

Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS)

Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a functional optical imaging technique that uses near-infrared light (wavelengths: 650–950 nm) to measure oxyhemoglobin and deoxy-hemoglobin concentration changes in cortical brain tissue. The use of fNIRS as a functional neuroimaging method relies on the principle of neuro-vascular coupling also known as the haemodynamic response.

In NEURI LAB, fNIRS are used for investigating the mechanisms of functional recovery after neurorehabilitation in brain disorders. Research participants can be resting or even engaging in activities (rehabilitation therapy or experimental tasks) while measuring their brain activities by using fNIRS device. The effect of neurorehabilitation can be verified by analyzing changes in brain network connectivities or oxy- or deoxy-hemoglobin concentrations using various analysis softwares.