Studying brain function with concurrent near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

We present concurrent NIRS-fMRI measurements on a human subject during a finger tapping test. The optical data were collected with a frequency domain experimental apparatus (ISS, Inc., Champaign IL) comprising sixteen laser sources at 690 nm, sixteen laser sources at 830 nm and four photomultiplier tube detectors. The lasers were coupled to optical fibers that led the light onto the subject's head. A special optical helmet (fMRI-compatible) with a retractable and resilient set of optical fibers was devised to improve the coupling between the fibers and the scalp. The fMRI data were collected with a 3 Tesla Siemens Trio magnetic resonance scanner and a quadrature birdcage radiofrequency coil. The spatial and temporal comparison of the fMRI and NIRS signals associated with brain activation showed a very good agreement, confirming the role of NIRS as a reliable brain monitor for functional studies.