The research program of the Biomagnetic Imaging Laboratory is focused on improving non-invasive functional brain imaging methods so that we can develop a better understanding of the dynamics of brain networks involved in processing and learning of complex human behaviors, such speech and language. We have been studying the auditory, visual, tactile (somatosensory) and motor systems using ESI and other functional brain imaging methods. Several basic research and clinical research questions are being pursued. Although largely overlapping, specific research program areas in the laboratory are:

Development and validation of algorithms and tools for electromagnetic source imaging

The principal goal here is to improve the use of electromagnetic source imaging (ESI is the combined use of MEG, EEG and MRI) in clinical and research practice through the development of better algorithms for image reconstruction and analysis. Another goal is the development of tools for integration of ESI with other imaging modalities such as DTI and fMRI. Ongoing projects include the development of various algorithms for selective signal cancellation, separation and localization of brain sources from EEG and MEG data. We draw upon advances in statistical signal processing, machine learning, and probabilistic Bayesian inference and apply such techniques to analyze MEG and EEG data. Another ongoing effort is to develop algorithms for automated detection and localization of epileptogenic zones. All Algorithms are validated by comparing ESI reconstructions with electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings in patients with brain tumors and in patients with epilepsy. Algorithm validation is also performed in animal models by comparing imaging data such as ESI reconstructions and DTI connectivity with electrophysiological and neuroanatomical measurements. Clinical applications of this work will be tested in patients with brain tumors and in patients with epilepsy.

Determining the biophysical basis for novel anatomical and functional brain imaging methods

The goal here is to determine the biophysical basis of auditory and somatosensory cortical activation and connectivity as assayed by modern functional brain imaging methods such as ESI and DTI. In ongoing experiments in patients, with brain tumors or intractable epilepsy, and in animals, we record magnetoencephalography (MEG), electroencephalography (EEG), electrocorticography (ECoG), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI) data. In animals, we can also record local field potentials and action-potentials from microelectrode arrays and measure neuroanatomical tracer uptakes. Linking such data obtained in the same subjects in response to the same stimuli across these recording methods enables comparisons of imaging across multiple scales and modalities. Current projects include studies of representations of somatosensory and auditory stimuli (in monkeys and cats) and of speech, language and memory responses in humans.

Imaging cortical spatiotemporal plasticity associated with learning

The goal here is to examine cortical plasticity due to learning and experience in normal adult humans using ESI. We are specifically interested in cortical plasticity in response to dynamic stimuli in the time-scale of tens to hundreds of milliseconds. We have been examining plasticity, associated with perceptual learning, in representations of simple and complex acoustic stimuli as well as speech and language stimuli. We are also examining plasticity of somatosensory and motor representation changes due to training and perceptual learning.

Neuroimaging of speech, language and memory

The goal here is to examine the spatiotemporal dynamics of brain networks involved in speech, language and memory processes. We specifically focus on overt speech production, its interaction with auditory feedback processing, and with language and memory processes. Several recent studies have shown that speaking causes Òspeaking-induced suppressionÓ or SIS - a suppressed response to self-produced speech when compared to identical speech from an external source - in auditory cortex and associative regions. In our own recent work, we have shown that SIS is present in auditory cortex, and does not result from overall inhibition of auditory cortex during speaking. Rather, SIS results from a comparison between actual auditory input and an internal Òspeaking-induced predictionÓ (SIP) of that auditory input. What is the functional significance of SIS and SIP? Based on several lines of evidence, we have developed a conceptual working model for SIS and SIP. The principal goal of this research is to test predictions from this model. Our overall approach capitalizes on unique real-time speech feedback alteration methods developed by our research team, the excellent spatial resolution of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the excellent temporal resolution of electromagnetic source imaging (ESI) and advanced analyses methods that we have developed for reconstructing spatiotemporal dynamics and connectivity of distributed cortical networks.

Developing novel clinical applications for ESI

In addition to existing clinical research projects in brain tumor and epilepsy patients, we are also in the process of developing several protocols and procedures for examining novel clinical populations. Ongoing projects including conducting ESI studies on patients with Schizophrenia, Mild Cognitive Impairments, ParkinsonÕs disease, Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, Focal-Hand Dystonia and Agenesis of the Corpus-Collosum.