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A Protocol for the Administration of Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback Training

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A 3.5-minute-long reading-based fMRI localizer for the language network.

Greta Tuckute^1,2, Elizabeth Jiachen Lee¹, Aalok Sathe¹

¹Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences and McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States.

Imaging Neuroscience (Cambridge, Mass.)

|May 29, 2026

Summary

A new, speeded language localizer paradigm in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) effectively identifies language networks. This faster method enhances detection of language-selective areas compared to standard approaches, saving valuable research time.

Keywords:

Multiple Demand network efficient functional localization language comprehension language network rapid serial visual presentation speeded reading

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Area of Science:

Cognitive Neuroscience
Neuroimaging

Background:

Individual differences in brain functional area localization necessitate subject-specific analyses in fMRI.
Functional localizer paradigms are crucial for identifying specific brain regions and networks in individual participants.

Purpose of the Study:

To introduce and validate a novel, speeded version of a localizer for the fronto-temporal language network.
To compare the efficacy of the speeded localizer against a standard version for identifying language-selective areas.

Main Methods:

A speeded presentation (200 ms/item) language localizer was developed, contrasting sentence and nonword conditions.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data were acquired from 24 participants comparing the speeded (3.5 min) and standard (450 ms/item) localizer versions.

Main Results:

The speeded language localizer demonstrated higher effectiveness in identifying language-selective areas compared to the standard version.
The speeded localizer showed an increased BOLD response to sentences and a decreased response to nonwords, enhancing contrast efficacy.

Conclusions:

The novel speeded language localizer is a highly effective and time-efficient tool for mapping the language network in neurotypical adults and special populations.
This optimized localizer is recommended for fMRI studies where participant time is limited, provided participants are proficient readers.