Optical Imaging of Intrinsic Cortical Signals Group #24 Shivani Shah, Ania Warczyk, Alia Durrani, Daniel Maxwell, Timothy Chen
Past Project Abandoned previous project: “Laparoscopic Smart Instruments for Detecting Nerve Bundles and Vasculature During Prostatectomy” Communication breakdown (mentor located at NIH in Bethesda, MD) Lack of resources, knowledge Found previous device design similar to goal of project (CatherMap Surgical Aid)
New Project Design an implantable camera for optical imaging of the visual cortex area of the brain (awake imaging) Further understand physiology of the brain Work with Psychological Sciences Department at Vanderbilt University New Mentor: Dr. Anna Roe, Ph.D.
Question/Thesis Problem Statement Performance Criteria Design an implantable camera for optical imaging of the visual cortex Without requiring subject immobilization Being tested on laboratory rats and monkeys Performance Criteria Head-worn camera Primary Objective Measuring hemodynamic signals related to neural activity Could be implanted or detachable
Background and Importance Solution Description Build upon previous work by summer intern Clover CCM625 Miniature Security Camera
Image Courtesy Vanderbilt Psychology Department Rat Cortex Imaging: 7/15/2004 Image Courtesy Vanderbilt Psychology Department
Methods Goals Factors Thorough patent search within next two weeks Constant communication with advisor Factors Future human applications – working with neurosurgeons Design camera including: CCD Chip LED illuminators Battery for power Possible wireless transmission for data
Status/Results Currently in Research and Design phase Conducting Digital Camera patent searches Communicate with Vanderbilt Electrical Engineering faculty members Attempting to work with past prototype Implement new technology Investigate wireless feasibility
Conclusions Current project has clinical significance for potential human applications Further investigate physiology of visual cortex Reduce physical stress on animal subjects