Unlocking New Frontiers in Brain Imaging
Our Technology
Set out to capture brain biomarkers
Optohive combines years of research and development with the latest in brain imaging technology to deliver a cutting-edge, wearable solution. Our system leverages functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) and advanced biomarker detection, supported by a flexible, modular hardware design for seamless use in both research and clinical settings.
What is fNIRS
Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non-invasive imaging technique that measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood oxygenation levels. Using near-infrared light, fNIRS travels through the head tissue to monitor the concentration of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin in the brain, providing a real-time view of cerebral function.
Imagine that: We take the pulse oximeter from your smartwatch, make it hundreds of times more sensitive, and apply it to the entire brain.
This method is particularly valuable for studying brain function in research settings or in natural environments, as it offers a safe, portable, and user-friendly alternative to traditional imaging methods like fMRI and EEG. fNIRS enables researchers and clinicians to observe dynamic brain responses without the need for complex, immobile equipment.
Advantages of Using fNIRS:
- Non-Invasive and Safe:
fNIRS uses low-power near-infrared light, making it completely safe for continuous use without the discomfort or risks associated with more invasive methods. - Portable and Wearable:
Unlike bulky MRI machines, fNIRS systems are lightweight and wearable, enabling real-world brain monitoring in natural settings, such as during physical activities, social interactions, or even in clinical environments. - Temporal Resolution:
fNIRS captures brain changes at higher rates than fMRI, allowing to better catch interfering signals and improving real-time monitoring of cognitive and neural responses. - Spatial Resolution:
While not as detailed as fMRI in spatial precision, fNIRS distinctly excels EEG’s spatial resolution, providing reliable data on localized cortical brain regions and allowing for accurate mapping of brain activity. - User-Friendly and Flexible:
fNIRS systems are easy to set up and adaptable to various environments, requiring minimal training and offering a modular design that can be tailored to different research or clinical needs. - Cost-Effective:
fNIRS provides a much more affordable solution than fMRI and comparable to EEG, offering a cost-efficient approach for high-quality brain imaging.
Addressing biomarkers for clinics
Our system offers the possibility to track brain biomarkers, providing key insights into brain health and function:
- Hemodynamic Response: Measures blood flow changes related to neural activity during specific tasks (e.g. cognitive or motor tasks).
- Connectivity Analysis: Understanding how different brain regions are interlinked, this enables advanced understanding of brain function.
fNIRS-derived biomarkers help detect early signs of neurological disorders and guide treatment.
Unique Hardware Design
Our OptoOne hardware is the result of years of R&D, offering a modular, wearable, and highly flexible system:
- Modular Options: Choose from different cap sizes (infant to adult) and sensor configurations (14, 35, or 70 sensors).
- Comfortable & Lightweight: Soft, ergonomic design for extended use.
- Easy to Use: Plug-and-play setup for quick deployment and minimal training.
