Research summary
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a non-invasive imaging method that is used to quantify chemicals in the brain, or neurochemicals. This can help us to understand the brain, brain processes and how these processes are affected in clinical conditions, such as concussions. Dr. Ashley Harris, Canada Research Chair in Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy in Brain Injury and Pain, is working to improve our ability to measure these neurochemicals.
Harris and her research team are advancing MRS methods to quantify neurochemicals to provide new insight into concussions and chronic pain caused by disorders like migraine, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. The knowledge they gain from quantifying neurochemical levels could be used to develop more specific, evidence-based treatments for those suffering from these conditions.