Brain Mapping Methods

Brain Mapping Methods.

The human brain is a knot of 100 billion neurons and supports cells. We can store a lifetime of memories there. Thus, the brain is a very crucial organ to analyze, brain mapping provides the way. Moreover, Brain mapping is a very advanced topic yet discussed. Brain mapping aims to give us a thorough picture of our brain’s structure.

Through this technique, scientists can figure out how are different neurons connected and how they change with time. However, various techniques may be employed to do so :

1) Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
This scanning technique uses a special dye containing radioactive tracers. Certain tissues then absorb the tracer and then one can observe them on the scanner.

Brain Mapping Methods

2) Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging

It is a technique in which the nuclei rotates using radio waves. Further, they subsequently oscillate in the magnetic field while returning to equilibrium.

Simultaneously they emit a radio signal. One can detect this using antenna (coils) and can be used for making detailed images of body tissues. This technique basically takes advantage of water in the brain to get a better resolution than a CT scan.

3) EEG Electroencephalogram

EEG is a test that helps to evaluate the electrical activity in the brain. An EEG can also help to detect potential problems associated with this activity. An EEG tracks and records brain wave patterns.

For testing, they attach small flat metal discs called electrodes to the scalp with wires. Further, the electrodes analyze the electrical impulses in the brain and send signals to a computer that records the results.

Moreover, other Brain Mapping Methods employed are MRI, TMS (Transcranial magnetic stimulation), DTI (Diffusion Tensor MRI), etc.

Know more about Science and Technology at STEAM CAMPUS.