Abstract

GUEVARA, Edgar. Optical imaging for human brain mapping. Rev. mex. neurocienc. [online]. 2026, vol.27, n.2, pp.85-96.  Epub Apr 30, 2026. ISSN 2604-6180.  https://doi.org/10.24875/rmn.25000039.

Optical imaging modalities for human brain mapping are noninvasive neuroimaging techniques that utilize light, typically in the near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths, to visualize and measure brain physiology and activity. These modalities provide critical insights into cerebral physiology by capturing hemodynamic and metabolic changes. They provide benefits such as real-time monitoring, portability, safety (no ionizing radiation), and cost-effectiveness. This comprehensive review outlines the current status of optical brain mapping technologies, highlighting key methods such as functional NIR spectroscopy and diffuse optical tomography while describing their effectiveness capabilities. It also traces the field’s historical development from the past 10 years to current high-density optical imaging systems. Future directions are discussed, including emerging innovations to improve spatial resolution, depth penetration, and integration with other modalities, which promise to expand the utility of optical neuroimaging. These optical imaging techniques have become indispensable tools for neuroscience research and clinical brain mapping, and continued advances offer promising prospects for enhancing our understanding of the human brain.

Keywords : Optical imaging; Brain mapping; Functional near-infrared spectroscopy; Neuroimaging.

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