Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) is approximately 32 to 33 years old, with its foundational research and initial studies emerging in the early 1990s. This neuroimaging technique, which measures brain activity through changes in blood oxygenation, saw its genesis between 1991 and 1992.
The Dawn of fNIRS Research
The initial foray into fNIRS studies occurred independently by several researchers. Pioneering efforts by scientists like Chance, Kato, Hoshi, and Villringer, using single-channel instruments, marked the very beginning of this innovative field. This period laid the groundwork for future advancements in non-invasive brain monitoring.
Key Milestones in Early Development
The rapid progression from initial studies to formalized publications and expanded capabilities highlights the significant early growth of fNIRS.
| Year | Significant Developments in fNIRS |
|---|---|
| 1991/1992 | The first independent fNIRS studies were conducted by researchers including Chance, Kato, Hoshi, and Villringer, utilizing single-channel instruments. These pioneering studies marked the inception of the technology. |
| 1993 | The scientific community saw the publication of the first six fNIRS studies. This year also witnessed the advancement of simultaneous monitoring of different cortical areas, achieved by integrating multiple single-channel instruments. |
Understanding fNIRS Today
As a non-invasive optical imaging technique, fNIRS measures changes in oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin concentrations in the brain. By shining near-infrared light through the scalp and detecting its absorption, it provides insights into cortical brain activity. Its portability and relative insensitivity to motion artifacts make it a valuable tool for studying brain function in various settings, including naturalistic environments. For more general information about this technology, you can explore resources like Wikipedia's fNIRS page.
Calculating its Age
Considering the first studies were carried out in the 1991-1992 period, as of the current year (2024), fNIRS has been actively researched and developed for:
- From 1991: 2024 - 1991 = 33 years
- From 1992: 2024 - 1992 = 32 years
Therefore, fNIRS is precisely between 32 and 33 years old, depending on whether its origin is marked from 1991 or 1992 within that pioneering two-year period.
