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  • Group of Brain Imaging and Research
  • Group of Brain Imaging and Research

    The Group of Brain Imaging and Research is overseeing the MR Imaging part of Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization (ToMMo). The group is also in charge of the cognitive and psychological assessment. We are investigating how daily habits or genetic factors have influence on the brain, its cognitive functions, and psychological conditions, in order to maintain a healthy brain and good cognitive functions through the whole life time. We are now starting the "health surveillance of the brain and psychological state" program for participants in the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study and the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Community-Based Cohort Study. Using brain analysis methods based on novel brain science, we can provide targeted feedback to the participants. Indeed, experienced medical doctors inspect images to detect abnormal findings, such as brain atrophy, cerebral infarction, brain tumor, and so on. A result of the program, a large-scale database of anonymous brain images will be established in near future.

    Furthermore, using this database, we aim to establish methods for early detection and prevention of several psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases highly associated with brain structure and functions changes, such as major depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and dementia.

    Shunji Mugikura, Professor

    Group Leader
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    Makiko Taira, Assistant Professor

    Deputy Group Leader
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