A recent study highlights the potential of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) devices, traditionally used for brain imaging, to enhance cognitive functions through a process known as photobiomodulation (PBM). This pioneering research, led by Professor Matteo Martini from the University of East London and Professor Natalia Arias from Nebrija University, marks a significant shift in the application of fNIRS technology from a diagnostic tool to a cognitive enhancer. The results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Behaviour Research Methods.
Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) works by measuring changes in brain hemodynamics, using near-infrared light to detect variations in tissue oxygenation. Historically, fNIRS has been praised for its portability, safety, and motion tolerance, making it the preferred choice for studying brain activity in diverse populations. However, recent findings suggest that near-infrared light can also modulate neuronal activity, a phenomenon known as photobiomodulation (PBM). “Our study indicates that standard use of fNIRS devices generates PBM, which affects cognition,” said Professor Martini.
In their study, the researchers performed a series of cognitive tests on the participants, with one group wearing active fNIRS devices and another group wearing inactive devices. The tests focused on the functions of the prefrontal cortex, assessing reaction times and accuracy in tasks related to memory, attention, and executive function. Surprisingly, the group with active devices showed faster reaction times and improved accuracy compared to the control group. This indicates that fNIRS, via PBM, has a tangible effect on improving cognitive performance.
An important aspect of this study was its methodological rigor. All participants underwent cognitive assessments before and after using the fNIRS devices. Tasks included a delayed counting-to-sample (DMS) task, a backward counting task (BCT), and an eStroop test. The experimental group, which used active devices, demonstrated notable improvements in all tasks compared to the control group. For example, in the DMS task, the experimental group showed significantly faster reaction times and higher accuracy after stimulation. These results were consistent across different cognitive domains, reinforcing the potential of fNIRS in cognitive enhancement.
Professor Arias’ research team delved deeper into the mechanism underlying PBM and noted that near-infrared light interacts with cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) in mitochondria, restoring electron transport chain activity and improving energy metabolism. This neuromodulatory effect is suggested to have long-lasting effects and potentially offers a noninvasive means to boost cognitive functions in healthy individuals and those with cognitive impairment.
Professor Martini and Professor Arias highlighted the novelty of their findings: “Our study is the first to demonstrate that a conventional fNIRS device, when used for its primary purpose, also acts as a cognitive enhancer through PBM. This dual functionality opens up new avenues for both research and practical applications in cognitive enhancement therapies.”
The implications of this research are profound. Already valued for their diagnostic capabilities, fNIRS devices could become powerful tools for improving cognitive functions, potentially aiding in the treatment of cognitive decline associated with aging, brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, the study’s findings suggest that fNIRS could be used to improve cognitive performance in healthy individuals, offering benefits in educational and occupational settings and opening the door to noninvasive therapies for aging.
By revealing the new role that fNIRS devices could play in modulating cognitive activity, the authors of this study also want to address the scientific community and warn researchers about the possible interactive effects that could be generated during the “conventional” use of such a tool. Professor Martini and Professor Arias suggest a simple way to overcome the protocol failure and obtain experimental control over these effects, in order to reveal the real effectiveness of the intervention under investigation (Martini and Arias, 2024).
In conclusion, the research conducted by Professor Martini’s and Professor Arias’ research groups presents a compelling case for the cognitive enhancement capabilities of fNIRS technology. Their study not only expands the understanding of fNIRS, but also paves the way for its application in improving cognitive health. As the field of neuroscience continues to evolve, the integration of diagnostic and therapeutic technologies such as fNIRS promises significant advances in cognitive science and mental health.
Journal reference
Waight, J.L., Arias, N., Jiménez-García, A.M. et al. From functional neuroimaging to neurostimulation: fNIRS devices as cognitive enhancers. Behav Res 56, 2227–2242 (2024). DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/s13428-023-02144-y
Martini, M and Arias, N. Disentangling the effects of near-infrared light stimulation and exercise on cognitive function in fNIRS studies. Neuroimage 2024 Apr 15:292:120615. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120615
About the authors
Dr. Matteo MartiniMartini is currently Professor of Psychobiology and Cognitive Neuroscience and Principal Investigator at the Laboratory of Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience at the University of Foggia. He received his MSc in Experimental Psychology and subsequently his PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from La Sapienza University, Italy. After postdoctoral work at the Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Spain, he obtained roles as Professor and Senior Lecturer at the Department of Psychological Sciences at the University of East London, UK. Martini's research covers different aspects of cognitive functioning, ranging from the study of pain and nociception, to the more recent investigation of cognitive enhancement through different interventions, such as physical activity and brain stimulation.
Dr. Natalia Arias Graduate in Biology and Psychology, Master in Neurosciences, PhD in Psychology and PI of the BRABE research group of the Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences. Her teaching experience spans various university systems, specialising in monitoring and maximising student outcomes in university settings. At the research level, she is interested in the study of non-invasive treatments in early stages of neurodegeneration, as well as in the search for biomarkers in these diseases. Her interests range from preclinical trials to human translation, which is reflected in the numerous collaborations with national and foreign universities and companies.
You have successfully subscribed!
