Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (pronunciation: /ˈfʌŋkʃənəl mæɡˈnɛtɪk rɪˈzəːnəns ˈɪmɪdʒɪŋ/) often abbreviated as fMRI, is a Neuroimaging technique that measures brain activity by detecting changes associated with blood flow. This technique relies on the fact that cerebral blood flow and neuronal activation are coupled. When an area of the brain is in use, blood flow to that region also increases.
The primary form of fMRI uses the Blood-oxygen-level dependent (BOLD) contrast, discovered by Seiji Ogawa. This is a type of specialized brain and body scan used to map neural activity in the brain or spinal cord of humans or other animals by imaging the change in blood flow (hemodynamic response) related to energy use by brain cells.
Etymology
The term "Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging" derives from the function of the technique to image in real time and its use of magnetic fields. "Functional" refers to the ability to measure physiological activity, such as blood flow, in the brain. "Magnetic Resonance" refers to the technique's use of magnetic fields and radio waves to create images. "Imaging" refers to the creation of images, in this case of the brain.
Related Terms
- Neuroimaging: The use of various techniques to either directly or indirectly image the structure, function, or pharmacology of the nervous system.
- Blood-oxygen-level dependent (BOLD): A method used in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to observe different areas of the brain or other organs, which corresponds to changes in blood oxygen levels.
- Seiji Ogawa: A Japanese physicist who is known for the discovery of blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) contrast used in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
- Hemodynamic response: Changes in the local blood flow that occur in response to neuronal activity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Wikipedia's article - Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
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