Functional neuroimaging
Functional Neuroimaging
Functional neuroimaging (pronunciation: /ˈfʌŋkʃənəl ˌnʊərəʊˈɪmɪdʒɪŋ/) is a type of neuroimaging that is primarily used to measure and visualize the functioning of the brain. It is a non-invasive method that allows researchers and clinicians to observe neural activity within the brain under varying conditions.
Etymology
The term "functional neuroimaging" is derived from the words "function", referring to the activities and tasks that the brain performs, and "neuroimaging", which refers to the use of various techniques to directly or indirectly image the structure or function of the brain.
Definition
Functional neuroimaging is a branch of medical imaging that focuses on the detection of metabolic changes in the brain that are associated with neural activity. This is achieved by measuring changes in blood flow or metabolic alterations. The main goal of functional neuroimaging is to understand how different parts of the brain work together to produce behavior and cognition.
Techniques
There are several techniques used in functional neuroimaging, including:
- Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI): This technique measures brain activity by detecting changes associated with blood flow. It is one of the most commonly used techniques in functional neuroimaging.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET): PET is a nuclear medicine functional imaging technique that produces a three-dimensional image of functional processes in the body.
- Electroencephalography (EEG): This technique measures electrical activity in the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp.
- Magnetoencephalography (MEG): MEG measures the magnetic fields produced by electrical activity in the brain.
Related Terms
- Neuroimaging
- Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Positron Emission Tomography
- Electroencephalography
- Magnetoencephalography
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Functional neuroimaging
- Wikipedia's article - Functional neuroimaging
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