MR Spectroscopy (MRS) is a technique that allows a dynamic evaluation of the naturally occurring chemicals in brain cells.  It allows a unique view into the most basic cellular functions in the brain.  Many naturally occurring elements can be detected and monitored during certain brain activities.  The results can then be used to characterize normal and abnormal functionality in the brain.

Chemicals related to a variety of activities can be detected using MRS.  For example, several chemicals that are used as energy sources, nerve cell markers, or reaction by-products can be examined.  Their presence (or absence) indicates levels of cellular activity within the brain cells.

MRS Imaging is a closely related technique that evaluates similar chemical activity as described above.  However, the information can be presented in imaging format.  The image format is used to link anatomical information with the functional behaviors.

Adapted from the work of P. Barker (1999)