Biophotons and Advanced Neuroimaging
Illuminating the Mind: Brain Lights and Advanced Neuroimaging
Scientists have discovered that our brains are glowing. A new article published by Scientific American reveals that all living things, including people, give off tiny amounts of light that are too weak for our eyes to see. This light is created from what are called biophotons.
The same tools used for mindblowing research like this also helps save lives everyday at RadNet.
What are biophotons?
Biophotons come from reactions inside our bodies when we make and use energy. They create a tiny burst of light that corresponds to the brain’s activity.
The more energy a part of the body uses, the more light it gives off. Since our brains use a lot of energy, they also give off more of this invisible light. The question is: why?
What do biophotons do?
Scientists have some exciting suggestions as to why these biophotons exist. According to a research paper on this phenomenon, biophotons might be involved in communications and information processing within the brain, possibly contributing to memory and consciousness (Biophoton Signal Transmission and Processing in the Brain).
Neurons in the brain may act like fiber-optic cables, transmitting data across long cables using light. In an experiment done on rats, researchers found that brain cells make up about one tiny flash per cell each minute. When this is applied to the human brain, that could add up to more than a billion flashes every second. (Are there optical communication channels in the brain?)
Biophotons are a relatively new phenomenon in the world of neuro-imaging. As researchers use advanced imaging modalities to understand the purpose and function of these little flashes of light, RadNet continues to use these same modalities to provide expert and quality care to our patients. Biophoton research is helping us ask new questions, but RadNet’s imaging helps us find real answers for our patients every day.
What is Neuroradiology?
Neuroradiology is a specialty of radiology focused on diagnosing and treating diseases of the neurological system. Modalities like CT, MRI, and angiography are used to visualize and assess these areas. Clinical imaging is the gold standard for assessing real-world brain structure and function. At RadNet, our neuroradiology team uses these advanced imaging techniques to find brain problems, track how diseases change over time, and help plan treatments.
While we can’t use imaging to study biophotons in our centers, the RadNet Neuroradiology program is using state-of-the-art imaging modalities to set a new standard in brain imaging. RadNet combines sophisticated technology, AI, and the expertise of our neuroradiologists and nuclear medicine physicians to provide precise and timely diagnoses for even the most complex conditions.
For more information regarding RadNet’s neuroradiology program, click here.