Spectroscopy

Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) is an advanced imaging technique that investigates the biochemistry of tissues within the body, particularly the brain. Unlike conventional MRI, which provides detailed images of tissue structure, MRS focuses on identifying and quantifying specific metabolites based on their unique chemical signatures. By applying a magnetic field and radiofrequency pulses, MRS detects the resonance frequencies of various chemical compounds, such as neurotransmitters and metabolic byproducts. This non-invasive technique provides valuable insights into brain metabolism, helping researchers and clinicians understand neurological disorders and explore brain function at a biochemical level.

Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to measure brain activity by detecting changes in regional blood oxygen levels. When areas of the brain are active, there is an increase in cerebral blood flow and volume. Similar to functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) imaging, fNIRS is also able to measure blood oxygenation, however they use different methods. FNIRS works by shining near-infrared light through the skull and into the brain. The light is absorbed differently by oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, allowing fNIRS to investigate the concentration of the two hemoglobin species. This technique is valuable for studying brain function in real-time, offering insights into cognitive processes and brain health. fNIRS is particularly useful in clinical and research settings because it is portable, relatively easy to use, and provides continuous data while allowing subjects to move freely. This makes it an excellent tool for understanding brain activity in both clinical populations and healthy individuals.

Here is a great resource: Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Its Clinical Application in the Field of Neuroscience: Advances and Future Directions