Research
Advances in optical methods are driving a revolution in the neurosciences. Optical methods for imaging and manipulation of brain structure and function span from visualization of intracellular organelles and protein assemblies to noninvasive macroscopic investigation of cortical activity in human subjects. The methods and applications are growing rapidly and are driving profound advances in understanding brain phenomena such as electrical excitability, neuroglial partnership, neurovascular signaling, metabolic activity, and hemodynamics. At the interface of the neurosciences and photonics, these neurophotonic advances are not only impacting our basic understanding of how the brain works in health, but will also have profound impact on our understanding of brain disease and injury and guide new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.