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Technology Transfer from the University of Oxford

Brain ANAlysis and mapping - Isis Project No 2974

Version 3.3 of the definitive Oxford software library on functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain is now available.

Marketing Opportunity

Functional MRI (FMRI) has enabled scientists and clinicians to look for the first time into the human brain in vivo. It identifies those parts of the brain that are activated by different physical stimuli such as, for example, sight and sound. Stimulated areas are characterized by increased blood flow, and this shows up on the functional MRI scans: “Brain Mapping”. FMRI is a non-invasive and safe technique; studies can be performed again and again in the same individuals.

Typical applications and markets include:

  • Understanding the neural basis of many normal human cognitive processes, such as:
    • ability to memorize information;
    • recognize faces;
    • how we experience pain; and
    • neurobiological basis for problems of drug addiction or gambling.
  • Clinical applications
    • how those with a disabling neurological disease improve functionally over time;
    • neurobiological basis of rehabilitation strategies associated with function recovery;
    • pre-surgical mapping of the eloquent cortex;
    • new approaches to the early diagnosis of disease; and
    • routine management of patients with neurological disease.

The Oxford Invention

The Oxford FMRIB group is dedicated to the continual improvement and understanding of FMRI, and has recently issued version 3.3 of its well proven software library (FSL). FSL runs on Apple, PCs (Linux and Windows) and Sun, and is very easy to install. FSL courses are run every year to support users.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commercialization Opportunity

This software library is now available for commercial applications, and companies interested in applying this technology are invited to contact Isis.

See the FMRIB web site http://www.fmrib.ox.ac.uk/fsl/ for more technical details.

Request Further Information: Project Number 2974 - Brain Analysis and Mapping