Broadband near-infrared spectroscopy of heterogeneous tissue

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Biomedical Near Infrared Spectral Imaging (NIRSI) uses optical radiation of the waveband between approximately 700 and 1000 nm to measure concentrations (absolute or changes) of substances (chromophores) absorbing light. Although NIRSI have been expected to become a widely used medical diagnostic tool, the sensitivity of the instruments created so far remained below clinically required level. My key hypothesis is that the necessary improvement of NIRSI can be achieved by developing the continuous-wave broadband approach and novel specialized signal processing techniques. Based on the present state of NIRSI and on my own experience and recent research results, in this proposal I request support for the HQP training and research on the development of the broadband and portable NIRSI techniques for the characterization of heterogeneous tissues and capturing of human cerebral activity signals. The specific aims of the proposal include: 1) Creation of a broadband NIRSI system including a multichannel apparatus and novel spectral imaging algorithm based on spectral derivatives; 2) Development of quantitative near-infrared telemetry and brain-computer interface; 3) Development of novel data analysis techniques for NIRSI and multimodal data. Very few groups worldwide are presently active in the development of these subfields of NIRSI. My approach will include the emphasis on the understanding of the fundamental physical factors limiting signal-to-noise ratio of the technique, development of the appropriate signal processing methods, and using recent advances in light generation and detection technologies. The implementation of the proposed program should pave a way towards the development of new classes of sensory and imaging devices suitable for clinical, military and other biomedical applications. Two doctoral, three master, and five undergraduate students will be trained within the proposed program.