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Improved spatio-temporal measurements of visually evoked fields using optically-pumped magnetometers

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posted on 2023-06-10, 02:18 authored by Aikaterini Gialopsou, Christopher Abel, Timothy Martin James, Thomas CoussensThomas Coussens, Mark Bason, Reuben Puddy, Francesco Di Lorenzo, Katharina Rolfs, Jens Voigt, Tilmann Sander, Mara Cercignani, Peter KruegerPeter Krueger
Recent developments in performance and practicality of optically-pumped magnetometers (OPMs) have enabled new capabilities in non-invasive brain function mapping through magnetoencephalography. In particular, the lack of cryogenic operating conditions allows for more flexible placement of sensor heads closer to the brain, leading to improved spatial resolution and source localisation capabilities. Through recording visually evoked brain fields (VEFs), we demonstrate that the closer sensor proximity can be exploited to improve temporal resolution. We use OPMs, and superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) for reference, to measure brain responses to flash and pattern reversal stimuli. We find highly reproducible signals with consistency across multiple participants, stimulus paradigms and sensor modalities. The temporal resolution advantage of OPMs is manifest in a twofold improvement, compared to SQUIDs. The capability for improved spatio-temporal signal tracing is illustrated by simultaneous vector recordings of VEFs in the primary and associative visual cortex, where a time lag on the order of 10–20 ms is consistently found. This paves the way for further spatio-temporal studies of neurophysiological signal tracking in visual stimulus processing, and other brain responses, with potentially far-reaching consequences for time-critical mapping of functionality in healthy and pathological brains.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Published version

Journal

Scientific Reports

ISSN

2045-2322

Publisher

Nature Research

Issue

1

Volume

11

Page range

1-11

Article number

a22412

Event location

England

Department affiliated with

  • Physics and Astronomy Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2022-01-14

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2022-01-14

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2022-01-14

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