Dual-slope FD-NIRS to study brain signals non-invasively
Official title: Dual-slope method for enhanced depth sensitivity in frequency-domain near-infrared spectroscopy
Funded at Tufts University Medford · NIH-11363937 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A non-invasive brain imaging method using dual-slope frequency-domain near-infrared spectroscopy to better measure deep brain signals in real-world settings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Medford NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2021 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $585,260 |
| NIH project number | 2R01EB029414-05A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11363937 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals who need non-invasive brain monitoring in clinical or real-world environments, such as those with neurological conditions or monitoring requirements.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals with conditions or situations where near-infrared spectroscopy is not informative or not tolerated may derive little direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project improves a non-invasive brain imaging tool that uses light to study brain blood flow and signaling. It will advance data analysis, measurement techniques, and probe designs to boost depth sensitivity and brain specificity. The team will also develop a compact, low-power chip to make the device wearable and usable outside traditional lab environments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could lead to more accurate, wearable brain imaging for monitoring cerebral hemodynamics in everyday settings.
How similar studies have gone: Previous FD-NIRS work has shown promise, and dual-slope approaches are being explored to enhance depth sensitivity and stability.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Medford
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fantini, Sergio — Tufts University Medford
- Study coordinator: Fantini, Sergio
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.