Abstract
Background
Optical brain imaging allows an understanding of the structure and function of neurons. Researchers can help patients who suffer from nervous system diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy’s Body Dementia, by exploring brain structure and function. Despite the advent of new PET diagnostics to image amyloid deposits in living patients' brains, there remains a need for more readily available and affordable diagnostic testing.
Method
A time‐domain functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (TD‐fNIRS) system (Kernel Flow, Kernel Inc.) is presented. The system has been designed as a small modular device that can provide real‐time monitoring of tissue oxygenation in the brain as subjects take tests, perform cognitive tasks, and/or receive stimulation.
Result
We show the performance of the wearable TD‐fNIRS device in multiple settings and aim to use this technology to develop a protocol for identifying and tracking brain changes in aging and dementia from the preclinical stage of the disease.
Conclusion
Laboratory tests with study subjects and preliminary data recorded demonstrate the potential of the system as a clinical tool to be employed in multiple settings to not only monitor brain activity but with the potential for additional human neuroscience applications, making neuroimaging more accessible across health and science platforms.