For centuries people have used many
different techniques to try to look inside the human mind and
unlock its secrets. Brainwaves were first detected electronically
years ago, but much of what has been learnt was only possible by
physically entering the skull.
Today at Aston University, researchers are employing new types
of brain scanning technology to rapidly advance our understanding
of the human brain, in totally non-invasive means.
By using Magneto-Encephalography (MEG) and Functional Magnetic
Resonance Imaging (FMRI) they can locate brainwaves and the pattern
of oxygen use in different areas of the brain and have begun to map
They are beginning to learn how different parts of the brain
work together, and eventually may learn how thoughts and memories
are built up.
In the meantime their work is proving valuable in clinical uses,
in planning brain surgery, and helping to understand illnesses like
epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Close up sculpture head
- Exteriors of Vision Sciences Building
- MEG and MRI Scanning in progress
- Different brain scans on screen
- Dr Paul Furlong, Convenor of Neuro-Imaging Research Group,
School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University
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