BOLD (Blood Oxygen Level Dependent)

BOLD, or Blood Oxygen Level Dependent, is a technique used in functional MRI (fMRI) scans to measure brain activity. When a particular area of the brain is active, it consumes more oxygen. As a result, nearby blood vessels dilate to supply more oxygen-rich blood to that area. This change in blood flow alters the levels of oxygen in the blood, which fMRI can detect. By observing these variations, scientists can map brain functions and understand how different regions respond during various tasks or activities, providing insights into brain health and cognitive processes.