LABNIRS - functional Near- Infrared Spectroscopy System for Research

Importance of the Topic

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) offers non-invasive, mobile, high-resolution cortical hemodynamic monitoring. It addresses limitations of fMRI by allowing measurement in naturalistic environments and during movement, enabling broader research in neurorehabilitation, cognitive neuroscience, mental health, and multi-modal brain-machine interface studies.

Objectives and Overview

The LABNIRS system developed by Shimadzu aims to deliver next-generation optical brain-function imaging through an integrated platform that combines high-channel-density measurements, rapid sampling, and versatile operation. The system supports diverse research workflows ranging from basic brain science to applied fields such as drug development and ergonomics.

Used Instrumentation

• LABNIRS main unit: up to 40 fiber sets (max. 142 channels).
• Three near-infrared semiconductor lasers (780, 805, 830 nm wavelengths).
• High-sensitivity photomultiplier tube detector.
• Flexible fiber holders: L-shaped and straight-type fibers, FLASH adjustable holders, infant and whole-head configurations.
• Optional peripherals: 3D position measurement, MRI fusion software, real-time video recording, real-time data transfer, stimulus presentation, EEG integration.

Main Findings and Discussion

Shimadzu’s fNIRS platform achieves a temporal resolution of 6 ms (vs. 25 ms), doubled spatial density, and expanded channel count up to 142. Multi-distance acquisition and three-wavelength illumination improve signal reliability by compensating for extracerebral artifacts. The intuitive GUI streamlines measurement setup and real-time monitoring, while advanced analysis modules support independent component analysis, GLM-based statistics, and batch processing.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rehabilitation: Enables measurement during gait and therapeutic tasks, supporting stroke recovery and neurorehabilitation feedback.
• Mental Health and Drug Development: Facilitates group comparisons in schizophrenia and depression studies, monitoring treatment efficacy.
• Infant Research: Safe, non-invasive assessment of neonatal brain development across sensory modalities.
• Cognitive and Educational Psychology: Supports controlled experiments linking brain activation to tasks such as eye tracking and decision-making.
• Multi-Modal and Informatics Research: Integrates with EEG, motion capture, and brain–machine interface systems for real-time biofeedback.

Future Trends and Prospects

Advancements may focus on even higher channel densities, portable wearable designs, machine learning–based data interpretation, and deeper integration with multimodal imaging (EEG, MRI, motion analysis). Expanded use in clinical research, personalized neurotherapeutics, and adaptive human–computer interfaces is anticipated.

Conclusion

The LABNIRS system represents a versatile, high-performance fNIRS solution that enhances spatiotemporal monitoring of brain activity in complex and dynamic tasks. Its scalability and modular design meet the evolving demands of neuroimaging research, paving the way for novel applications in neuroscience, rehabilitation, and human–machine interactions.

References

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