What is going on in our brain? Until now, to find out, you had to rely on the essential MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging). A technique that was improved by two researchers from the University of Geneva and the Federal Polytechnic School of Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland by combining it with a data processing program.
The classic functional MRI makes it possible to detect the blood flow corresponding to the areas of brain activity. But since these areas of activity are marked by numerous colored spots that appear and disappear, it is difficult to identify when a particular region of the brain is active or not.
With this new imaging technique, it is possible to visualize the times when each network of the brain is active or inactive. The researchers identified thirteen main networks and realized a real coordination between these areas, with three to four networks active at any time.
A breakthrough in the diagnosis of neurological diseases
With this access to the work of different brain networks and therefore an unprecedented visualization of the brain in activity, the researchers hope to be able to use this technique to diagnose certain neurological diseases. DiseaseAlzheimer’s is in their sights. Indeed, it is characterized by an early degradation of certain networks even before the appearance of clinical symptoms. Degradation that it would therefore be possible to detect.
Other diseases could also be tracked thanks to this technical breakthrough. It could help to understand the brain mechanisms involved in major depression or bipolar disorder.
>> To read also:
Alzheimer’s disease: an identified therapeutic molecule
Alzheimer’s: a diet that reduces the risk by up to 53%
Soon a first village for Alzheimer’s patients
Alzheimer’s: towards earlier diagnoses
