Reading and controlling human brain activation using real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging

Area of Science:

• Cognitive and Neural Science
• Neuroimaging
• Neuroplasticity

Background:

• Understanding brain function's mediation of mental experience is a key goal in neuroscience.
• Real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rtfMRI) allows direct observation of brain activity during cognitive tasks.
• Previous research indicates the potential for volitional control over localized brain activation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the capacity of individuals to learn self-regulation of specific brain activation patterns using rtfMRI.
• To explore the link between self-controlled brain activity and corresponding changes in mental operations and subjective experience.
• To assess the potential of this technique as a non-invasive method for modulating cognitive processes and neurological conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rtfMRI) to provide subjects with immediate feedback on their brain activity.
• Training participants to deliberately modulate neural activity in targeted brain regions associated with specific cognitive functions or sensations.
• Measuring changes in subjective experience (e.g., pain perception) and cognitive performance in correlation with learned brain activation control.

Main Results:

• Subjects demonstrated the ability to learn to control activation in specific brain regions, such as those involved in pain processing.
• Learned control of brain activation corresponded with measurable alterations in mental operations and subjective experiences, including reduced pain.
• rtfMRI-based neurofeedback shows promise as a method for individuals to voluntarily influence their own brain function.

Conclusions:

• Individuals can learn to exert volitional control over localized brain activation patterns through real-time neurofeedback.
• This self-regulation of brain activity has the potential to non-invasively alter cognitive processes and alleviate symptoms of certain diseases, like chronic pain.
• rtfMRI-based self-regulation represents a novel approach for both observing and intervening in brain function for therapeutic purposes.