Neurophotonics and Optical Brain Mapping

Catalog description

Understanding how the brain works and developing effective therapeutics are important in advancing neuroscience and improving clinical patient care. This course covers state-of-the-art research and development in optical technologies and applications for brain mapping and therapeutics. It provides a comprehensive overview of various methods developed using light, both microscopic and macroscopic techniques. Recent developments in mesoscopic optical imaging of deep brain structure and function, as well as light-based therapy and neural stimulation are also reviewed. The course covers optical methods for imaging, sensing, and manipulating brain structure and function, functional brain mapping, image-guided neurosurgery, and neuromodulation (optogenetics, low-level light therapy/photobiomodulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, ultrasound modulation). Focuses on brain disease diagnostics, neuromodulation and therapeutics. It is structured around literature-based studies and discusses optical imaging in the context of neurosciences and neuroimaging. The course involves traditional style lectures, imaging facility tour (as available), and final paper and presentation on the subject of the student choice in accordance with the instructor. Department Managed Prerequisite(s): Undergraduate level PHY 2410 Minimum Grade of D