MRI and fMRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and other internal structures. It allows researchers to study brain anatomy, connectivity, and function with high spatial resolution—without exposure to ionizing radiation. At the ICAN, MRI is used to investigate how brain structure and activity relate to psychological processes, cognition, and behavior. By combining structural (T1, DTI) and functional (fMRI) imaging, we aim to better understand the neural mechanisms underlying mental health and disease.

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is a neuroimaging technique that provides insights into brain function by measuring changes in blood flow and oxygenation. It relies on the close relationship between neural activity and the brain's vascular response. When neurons in the brain become active, they require more oxygen and nutrients to support their functions. In response, local blood vessels dilate to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to the active regions. This phenomenon, known as the hemodynamic response, is the basis of fMRI.

What sets fMRI apart is its ability to combine structural and functional imaging seamlessly. In addition to mapping brain activity, fMRI can be integrated with structural MRI scans, providing high-resolution anatomical images of the brain's structure. This combination of functional and structural data allows researchers to not only identify which brain regions are active during specific tasks but also precisely localize these regions within the individual's brain anatomy. This integration is invaluable for studying the relationship between brain structure and function, aiding in the identification of abnormalities, lesions, or structural variations that may be associated with specific cognitive or clinical conditions.

This capacity to merge structural and functional information with high spatial resolution has made fMRI a versatile tool for investigating complex cognitive processes, emotional responses, and neurological or psychiatric disorders. It provides researchers with a comprehensive view of the brain, enabling a deeper understanding of the neural basis of human behavior and cognition. Despite the specialized equipment required, fMRI is widely regarded as the gold standard for neural imaging, steadily fostering new discoveries in the field.