Study of a New Optically Pumped Magnetometer OPM Device for Measuring Brain Activity Compared to Standard MEG

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new type of magnetic field sensor called an optically pumped magnetometer OPM for measuring magnetic fields produced by brain activity. This research aims to develop and test the OPM array and compare its performance to a standard MEG system. The study focuses on healthy adults aged 18 to 65 who previously had an MRI scan under a specific protocol. The study involves testing a 49-61 channel OPM MEG system and comparing it to a standard SQUID MEG system. Participants will complete sessions using both devices. During the sessions, sensors will be attached to the headeither via a cap for the OPM or coils taped to the face for the SQUID MEG. Participants will be seated in a magnetically shielded room and may complete various tasks involving visual, auditory, language, or somatosensory stimuli, including median nerve stimulation. Participation typically lasts one day, with optional additional scans over a year. Researchers will assess the OPM arrays performance, including signal quality and spatial resolution, and evaluate the systems ability to map receptive fields of the fingers. Safety and participant cooperation are monitored throughout, with outcomes measured continuously during the study.

Characterization of an Optically Pumped Magnetometer (OPM) Magnetoencephalography (MEG) Array