F.M. Kirby Research Center - Functional Brain Imaging

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an exciting, non-invasive technique for brain imaging. Since the mid-1980s, standard MRI techniques have been used to generate high quality anatomical images of normal and abnormal brain structures. Functional MRI is one of the newest advancements in MRI technology. It provides a sophisticated view into the workings of the brain related to changes in metabolism, as well as through imaging the main brain connections.

Within the F.M. Kirby Research Center, technology can be described according to four related categories of brain research. We've titled these as "Watching the Brain at Work", "Brain Chemistry", "Tracing Connections", and "Brain Anatomy."


Watching the Brain at Work The way the brain functions depends on several factors, especially fuel and oxygen. A brief description of the brain features that provide the basis of functional MRI is presented here.	Brain Chemistry Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and the related Spectroscopic Imaging are two techniques that evaluate the chemical make-up of the brain. The role this chemical analysis plays in functional imaging is introduced here.
Tracing Neuronal Connections Communications between nerve cells in the brain are essential to normal brain activity. Functional MRI techniques are being developed to generate three-dimensional pictures of the communication pathways in the brain.	Brain Anatomy The brain is a very complex structure. Studies are being performed to developed to visualize the brain structures in multidimensional maps. These maps are used to validate the other functional images described.

Preparing for a Visit The MRI environment is unique. The major feature is a high-resolution magnet system that is safe to visit, but may require a few simple preparations prior to the imaging exams. Your physician may provide you with specific instructions for how to prepare. Some general points are provided here.	Directions to the Kirby Center The Kirby Center is located on the first floor of the Kennedy Krieger Institute in east Baltimore. Here is a list of directions to the facility.

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