One of the most recently developed forms of neuroimaging, fmri is a type of specialized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. It measures the hemodynamic response in the brain that corresponds to mental operations. fmri is based on the increase in blood flow to the local vasculature that accompanies neural activity in the brain. fmri has come to dominate the field of brain mapping as a result of its reduced invasiveness, absence of radiation exposure, and relatively wide availability.
The identification, or mapping, of metabolic activities during MRI studies of the brain. During an fMRI, magnetic resonance images of the brain are made while the subject performs specific tasks (e.g. using certain fingers or saying particular words). The study helps identify changes in blood flow during these activities, as well as changes in brain chemistry or the movement of water molecules in neural tissues. It is used, for example, to study brain injuries caused by cancer, multiple sclerosis, strokes, and trauma.
The utilization of a distinctive form of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination that assesses variations in the circulation of blood and levels of blood oxygenation within the human body is commonly referred to as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).