fNIRS & TMS

The integration of fNIRS with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) provides a powerful multimodal approach for investigating cortical activation and brain connectivity. Because fNIRS uses optical signals rather than electrical fields, it is immune to the strong magnetic interference generated by TMS coils. This allows for the simultaneous measurement of hemodynamic responses directly under the stimulation site, offering high temporal resolution and a portable setup that can objectively track the effects of repetitive TMS (rTMS) even in the absence of behavioral changes. Enables direct investigation of cortical brain activation and connectivity during stimulation., Uses an optical signal that is completely unaffected by strong electromagnetic fields., Allows the TMS coil to be placed directly over low-profile fNIRS probes (under 10mm) to minimize magnetic field loss., Serves as a potential biomarker for assessing or predicting the outcomes of rTMS treatments for psychiatric disorders., Synchronizes TMS pulses with data acquisition via 4- or 8-bit digital trigger inputs., Employs specialized optode stabilizers and retaining caps to prevent mechanical contact artifacts., Provides a portable and small-footprint imaging solution compared to fMRI or PET., Supports TMS-guided fNIRS mapping to improve spatial specificity of functional cortical signals., Facilitates in vivo assessment of hemodynamic changes during active treatment sessions.