Measuring brain activity related to language in stroke survivors using a new method.
Concurrent Validity, Test-Retest Reliability, and Sensitivity to Change of Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Measuring Language-Related Brain Activity in Post-Stroke Aphasia
This study is looking at a new, easier way to measure brain activity related to language in stroke survivors with aphasia, using a method called fNIRS, to see if it can help track improvements after language therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10938022 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure brain activity associated with language in individuals who have experienced post-stroke aphasia. Unlike traditional fMRI, fNIRS is less restrictive, can be performed in a standard clinic setting, and is suitable for patients with certain medical devices. The study aims to validate fNIRS by comparing its results with fMRI, assessing its reliability over time, and determining its ability to detect changes in brain function following language therapy. This approach could provide a more accessible way to study and treat language disorders in stroke survivors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a stroke and are currently dealing with aphasia.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have aphasia or have not experienced a stroke may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved assessment and treatment options for individuals with aphasia, enhancing their recovery and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While fNIRS has been used in other contexts, its application in studying aphasia is relatively novel and has not been extensively validated.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Jeffrey P — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Jeffrey P
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 below.