A 90-channel triaxial magnetoencephalography system using optically pumped magnetometers
Molly Rea1, Elena Boto1, Niall Holmes1
1Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|September 6, 2022
Summary
A new triaxial optically pumped magnetometer-magnetoencephalography (OPM-MEG) system offers higher sensitivity and spatial resolution for brain imaging. This advanced OPM-MEG system accurately mapped motor function differences in left- and right-handed handwriting.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biophysics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a noninvasive tool for measuring brain activity via magnetic fields.
- Current MEG technology relies on cumbersome cryogenic sensors, limiting its application.
- Optically pumped magnetometers (OPM-MEG) offer a novel, noncryogenic approach with improved sensitivity and portability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and construct a novel 90-channel triaxial OPM-MEG system.
- To evaluate the system's performance in mapping neural activity during a naturalistic motor task.
- To compare the triaxial OPM-MEG design against conventional systems.
Main Methods:
- Construction of a 90-channel triaxial optically pumped magnetometer-MEG system.
- Implementation of high-precision magnetic field control to reduce background noise.
- Recording of brain activity during a naturalistic handwriting task in participants.
Main Results:
- The novel triaxial OPM-MEG system achieved high-precision magnetic field control (∼200 pT), enabling participant movement.
- The triaxial array demonstrated superior signal measurement and interference rejection compared to single-axis designs.
- Significant differences in sensorimotor network activity and connectivity were observed between left- and right-handed handwriting, with high repeatability (∼4 mm accuracy).
Conclusions:
- The developed triaxial OPM-MEG system represents a significant advancement in neuroimaging technology.
- This novel system provides high-performance functional neuroimaging with enhanced sensitivity, spatial resolution, and adaptability.
- The findings highlight the potential of OPM-MEG for detailed investigation of brain function, including handedness-related motor control.
