NEUROSCIENCE METHODS Flashcards
What are the 2 main neuroscience techniques
Neuroimaging [MRI & EEG]
Animal Models
Define resolution
the extent to which a method can capture brain activity
Define the 2 types of resolution
Spatial: Where is the brain activity coming from (Precision in the localisation of brain activity)
Temporal: When is the brain activity happening (Precision in the timing of brain activity)
What is an MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging
to investigate brain structure (sMRI) or function (fMRI)
What are the different viewpoints?
Sagittal - the
Axial -
Coronal -
What is the sMRI used for
investigates the size of the cortical matter, size of specific parts and differences
What are the advantages of the sMRI
Non-invasive
Little health risk
Good spatial resolution
What are the disadvantages of the sMRI
Noisy, cramped space
Very expensive machine
What is the process of an MRI
Very powerful magnet which generates a strong magnetic field. It is measured in the unit Tesla
Hydrogen molecules are susceptible to magnets (human body 66% H2O)
The molecules will start aligning in the direction of the magnet
Radiofrequency are then sent from the MRI machine and move these atoms out of their original position
When the radiofrequency force is switched off, the hydrogen protons return to their original alignment with the magnetic field
As this is happening, they release energy in terms of radio waves
MRI sensors then detect these radio waves
What is the fMRI used for
Which part of the brain is active during a task
What does the fMRI do
Detects changes in blood flow using a technique called BOLD (Blood oxygen level dependent)
More blood will go to the brain region that is being used and will become oxygen rich
Oxygen rich blood has more magnetic properties
When neurons are more active, there is an increase in oxygenated blood in the area
The fMRI detects this and can see the correlations
When is fMRI used:
Investigate differences in brain activity between different groups of people
Investigate differences in brain activity pre and post interventions
What are the 2 extra disadvantages of fMRI
(avantages and disadvantages are the same)
Poor temporal resoloution – difference in time of task being done and blood flowing
Indirect measure of brain activity
What does the electroencephalogram do
Investigates the electrical activity of the brain
Neurons produce electrical changes that form patterns called brain waves
EEG records brain activity via small electrodes that are places on the scalp
These detect brain waves
When is an EEG used
We need very precise temporal information
To diagnose neurological condition
To study brain functions
What does an EEG investigate
ERPs (event related potentials)
Brain waves/oscillations measured with alpha, beta, gamma, theta and delta in Hz
What are the advantages of EEG
Non-invasive
Inexpensive and flexible
Good temporal resolution
Direct measure of brain activity
What are the disadvantages of EEG
Poor spatial resolution
Mostly restricted to activity from cortical areas
Animal models
They play a crucial role in neuroscience research, allowing scientists to investigate thte structure, function and physiology
What are the drawbacks of using animals in research
There are moral responsibilities towards animals I.e. minimising pain and distress, all possible alternatives need to be considered
What can animal research be used for
Can be invasive
Target lesions
Test treatments
Genetic manipulation
