New method for imaging brain function using light to measure blood flow
Highly parallel long wavelength heterodyne diffuse correlation spectroscopy for brain functional imaging
This study is working on a new, easy way to see how your brain is working by measuring blood flow, which could help kids and people with mental health issues who find regular brain scans hard to do.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10479451 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a non-invasive imaging technique to monitor brain function, particularly for individuals who may struggle with traditional methods like fMRI. It utilizes a novel approach called diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) to measure blood flow in the brain, which is crucial for understanding neurological conditions. The goal is to create a compact and cost-effective DCS system that can be used in various settings, including with children and those with psychiatric disorders. By improving the sensitivity and performance of this imaging technique, the research aims to enhance our understanding of brain activity in real-time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and individuals with psychiatric disorders who may have difficulty undergoing traditional imaging techniques.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have neurological or psychiatric conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more accessible and effective way to monitor brain function in patients with mental health disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar imaging techniques, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carp, Stefan Alexandru — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Carp, Stefan Alexandru
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.