The laboratory develops next-generation spectroscopic neuroimaging tools to study how the human brain remodels itself across multiple spatial and temporal scales, combining advanced magnetic resonance physics, signal processing, and information theory.

Key Capabilities:

> Advanced MR Spectroscopy Acquisition Methods: Developing fast, high-resolution magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) pulse sequences and acquisition protocols to capture brain metabolite dynamics in vivo. The laboratory’s novel single-scan and spatially encoded methods enable quantitative tracking of neurotransmitter changes during learning and memory tasks with unprecedented temporal resolution. These techniques allow researchers to measure neurochemical processes that cannot be detected by conventional fMRI or electrophysiology.

> Quantitative Multiparametric MRS: Creating model-based reconstruction frameworks that extract multiple quantitative MR parameters (metabolite concentrations, relaxation times, diffusion properties) from spectroscopic data simultaneously. The laboratory integrates compressed sensing, low-rank modeling, and magnetic resonance fingerprinting approaches to improve sensitivity and reproducibility for clinical biomarker discovery. These advances enable robust detection of subtle neurochemical abnormalities in neurological disorders where conventional imaging appears normal.

> Neuroplasticity Imaging: Building integrated MRS and MRI platforms to probe how brain chemistry and microstructure encode learning, adaptation, and memory consolidation. The laboratory combines quantitative spectroscopy with behavioral paradigms to map neurotransmitter dynamics during motor learning, skill acquisition, and reinforcement tasks. These tools provide mechanistic insights into human neuroplasticity beyond what structural or functional imaging alone can reveal.

Applications:

Neurological Disease Biomarkers: Quantitative MRS protocols for detecting diffuse axonal injury, post-concussive symptoms, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease

Learning and Memory Research: In vivo neurochemical tracking during motor learning, memory consolidation, and cortical remodeling

Clinical Spectroscopy Translation: Robust, clinically feasible multiparametric MRS methods for routine diagnostic imaging

Contact:
Email: assaftal@tauex.tau.ac.il