Neural Engineering and Imaging
Prof. Marom Bikson, Prof. Lucas Parra
Neural Engineering applies engineering principles to solve questions in brain research and to the development of treatments for neurological disorders.
Our Neuronal Engineering group analyzes nervous system function at multiple levels including single channel, single cell, tissue, whole animal, and human cognitive levels. We integrate experimental insights with computational modeling and pursue translational research through the NYCBE.
"Unlocking the Brain"
Our goal is to understand normal and diseased brain function by applying engineering analysis to the most challenging problems in brain research.
The basic research of Professors Bikson and Parra on neuronal function addresses information processing by the brain. Their experimental and modeling work seeks to determine the synaptic and non-synaptic mechanisms leading to Coherent Neuronal Activity. Current research projects include the mechanisms and role of temporal encoding by neuronal populations as occurs during several behavioral and cognitive tasks (e.g. gamma oscillations). Complimentary research on the mechanisms of pathological (hyper) synchronization, as occurs during epileptic seizures, is necessary for the development of new therapeutic approaches.
"Writing the Brain"
Electricity has the potential to harm and to cure. Our goal is to understand this phenomena and develop the most advanced electrical therapies.
Dr. Bikson’s Electrotherapy and Applied Bioelectricity group at the NYCBE is working to determine the basic mechanisms by which electric fields affect brain function and to develop tools for research/clinical functional electrical stimulation. This research addresses the potential risks of human exposure to electro-magnetic fields such as those generated by mobile phones and power lines. It has immediate applications in the development of tools for exploring cognitive function and in the design of electrical prosthesis for the restoration of CNS and PNS function.
"Reading the Brain"
State-of-the-art signal processing techniques allow engineers to 'look in the mind'
Dr. Parra’s work in Neural Signal Processing focuses on developing signal analysis tools for imaging the central nervous system. His group emphasizes multivariate signal analysis and probabilistic modeling, drawing heavily on advanced machine learning techniques. Projects on functional imaging are based on Electro-Encephalography (EEG). Experiments in Parra’s high-density EEG recording lab study processes involved in human auditory and visual perception and attention. The latest perceptual modeling work in this laboratory seeks to explain the origin of tinnitus, and develop potential treatment options.
Cancer Therapy
In Neural Imaging, Dr. Parra is collaborating with Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to develop tools for the analysis of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging (MRSI). The goal is to identify markers of metabolic function that are indicative of brain tumors. Dr Bikson is concurrently developing technology to facilitate drug delivery to the brain, including for the treatment of identified tumors. Dr. Bikson is developing devices for Electrochemotherapy and drug delivery.