Functional imaging in the fetus

Top Magn Reson Imaging. 2011 Jun;22(3):113-8. doi: 10.1097/RMR.0b013e3182699283.

Abstract

This review focuses on the application of magnetic resonance imaging methods in utero studying functional brain development of spontaneous brain activity generated under resting conditions and of task-evoked activity using stimulation. These imaging approaches have been useful to explore the brain's functional organization during development, as already shown in different substantial resting-state studies in preterms. We also discuss emerging future directions regarding analyzing methods and combination of functional and structural connectivity approaches.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Stimulation / methods
  • Adult
  • Brain / physiology*
  • Brain Mapping / methods*
  • Female
  • Fetal Development / physiology*
  • Fetus
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / trends
  • Pregnancy
  • Rest