Event-related frequencies (ERF's) offer a noninvasive method for evaluating cognitive function by providing information on the speed and location of stimulus processing at the cortical level. The initial goal of this research is to test a unique method of quantifying cognitive brain frequency domain activity for discriminatory diagnostic testing and neurophysiologic monitoring of brain dysfunction. Eventual goals involve refining data acquisition for establishing correlates of patterns with specific neurologic manifestations such as Alzheimer's disease, AIDS, trauma, and normal aging. Phase I, a pilot study, will test 10 normal adults and 20 Alzheimer's disease patients. The objectives are to: (1) acquire dynamic recordings of electrical frequency shifts in the millisecond range resulting from the processing of complex stimuli, (2) analyze data, and (3) refine software. In Phase II, a longitudinal comparison between Alzheimer's disease patients and normal aging, establishment of decade norms, data acquisition expansion to other brain dysfunctions, and continued software refinement for expanded clinical and commercial applications are planned.
Anticipated Results:A method of measuring changes in cerebral organic dysfunction and response to treatment will facilitate both earlier diagnoses and drug research, offering significant health care and financial rewards.National Institute on Aging
