Brain Imaging Study at MGH

"Diffuse Optical Imaging of the Neuronal Signal"

Eddie Blue ScreenWe would like to enroll you as a participant in a research study.  The purpose of the study is to see if a new system is able to measure various changes in your brain, and to learn more about those changes.  The system is called a Diffuse Optical Imaging (DOI) system.  It uses lasers to monitor brain function.  It does not involve any sort of surgery, and even though it uses lasers, it does not expose you to radiation.  The laser light exposures on your skin are safe, similar to the output of TV remote control.

We will use the system to measure changes in your brain while you perform various tasks, such as finger-tapping exercises, or while we apply passive stimulation such as visual, auditory, tactile or low-amplitude electrical stimulation. In some cases in combination with DOI we will take measurements with electroencephalography (EEG).   In other cases, we will also take measurements with magnetoencephalography (MEG).  MEG and EEG rely on magnetic and electric waves, respectively, to monitor brain function.

For more information, e-mail Maria Angela Franceschini, Ph.D.


Head Probe"What Do You Need From Me?"

The imaging sessions will take place in Building 149 in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Generally, the sessions will last between one and two hours. Individual stimulation runs will last between 5 and 10 minutes; we will ask you to remain still during the runs. You can stop the session at any time if you are uncomfortable or for any other reason.

If you participate in a DOI only or a DOI/EEG imaging session, you will receive $20 per hour.  If you participate in a combined DOI-MEG/EEG imaging session, you will receive $40 per hour.  In addition, if you park in the MGH garage in the Charlestown Navy Yard, you will receive a parking sticker good for the entire day.

The main goal of this study is to advance the technology to measure neuronal activity by way of the so-called "fast" optical signal.  There will be no direct benefit to you. However, in the future, we hope to apply the technology to study the developing and the diseased brain.


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