Neuroimaging Core

The methods of functional neuroimaging have become key in the investigation of stress-related illnesses, pain and substance abuse as well as other disorders, and for evaluating the efficacy and underlying neurobiological mechanisms of Mind/Body interventions in patients. The Neuroimaging Core brings together researchers and practitioners from the imaging, biochemical, and physiological areas to serve as a resource for the broad application of these techniques to a diverse set of medical and social problems related to Mind/Body interactions. Despite the depth and breadth of expertise and hardware available at UCLA, access to these methods has been difficult to obtain, and a mechanism to facilitate access is invaluable in advancing research in the Mind/Body field. The three main aims of the Core are as follows.

Aim1. Develop and provide access to cutting edge imaging technology in the form of high field strength fMRI and required analyses techniques.

Aim 2. Develop and provide access to advanced imaging technology through established and novel PET tracers.

Aim 3. Assist in the design, performance and analysis of imaging studies in all modalities at UCLA, University of California - Irvine (UCI) and the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS).

Services

The Core will provide expertise and technical support to Mind/Body investigators engaged in studies using these methods in a wide range of laboratory and clinical settings. By interacting with the other 3 proposed cores and the Cognitive Neuroscience Center in the Dept. of Psychology, it will also greatly enhance the ability to perform studies taking advantage of multiple cutting edge technologies for data acquisition, processing and analysis.

The Neuroimaging Core provides expertise and technical support to Mind/Body investigators engaged in studies using fMRI, novel analysis techniques, and PET ligand imaging in a wide range of laboratory and clinical settings. By interacting with the other cores and the Cognitive Neuroscience Center in the Dept. of Psychology, it also greatly enhances the ability to perform studies taking advantage of multiple cutting edge technologies for data acquisition, processing and analysis.

The activities of the Neuroimaging Core have already generated several collaborative efforts with investigators on campus (Psychology), with other Mind/ Body centers and SCOR grants at other Universities, and have greatly assisted trainees, and junior faculty members to apply for independent funding. The Director, co-directors and associate directors have developed synergistic relationships, which are enhancing the access of Center members to the resources of the Core. The three main aims of the Core are as follows.

• Develop and provide access to cutting edge imaging technology in the form of high field strength fMRI and required analyses techniques.
  
  
• Develop and provide access to advanced imaging technology through established and novel PET tracers.
  
  
• Assist in the design, performance and analysis of imaging studies in all modalities at UCLA, University of California - Irvine (UCI) and the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS).
  

Animal Models Core
Health Outcomes Core
Neuroendocrine Assay Core
Psychophysiology and Pain Assessment Core