Understanding Neurovascular Coupling

Our cutting-edge flicker-illuminated fundus camera system enables exploration of neurovascular coupling. This innovative tool is designed to enhance understanding of the intricate connections between the cardiovascular and nervous systems through detailed ocular blood flow responses. Join us in advancing ocular research and uncovering the mysteries of neurovascular interactions.

Using the LSFG-NAVI Flicker System to foster a deeper understanding of neurovascular connections.

LSFG-NAVI Flicker System

Flicker stimulates
photoreceptor cells

Photoreceptor cells require additional oxygen

Decreased vascular resistance and increased blood flow

This system can be used to measure elevated blood flow before, during, and after stimulation.

The response exhibits several differences depending on the condition of the subject.

Good response

Morning

Good condition

Weak response

Afternoon

Relaxing after exercise

No response

Evening

Exhausted
but in a situation where you have to work

Why does the response vary?

Response to stress (response to flicker stimuli) depends on the autonomic nervous system condition.

Techniques for autonomic nervous system assessment:

A new method for assessing autonomic nervous system activity from ocular blood flow

4 sec Real-time measurement of ocular blood flow

30frames/sec Time-series blood flow data
This spectrum is distinct from the ordinary LF and HF responses on the basis of the ECG system using the RR interval.

Prediction of frequency spectrum *

LF
Low frequency

LF is calculated by integrating the frequency spectrum range 0.04–0.15 Hz.

LF represents sympathetic activity as mental effort.
HF
High frequency

HF is calculated by integrating the frequency spectrum range 0.15–0.5 Hz.

HF represents parasympathetic activity(?).

* Softcare Co., Ltd., 2018. “BLOOD FLOW DYNAMIC IMAGING DIAGNOSIS DEVICE AND DIAGNOSIS METHOD” WO/2018/003139

Our hypothesis:

WhenLF is low, sympathetic nervous system activity is dominant. Low LF can indicate a sympathetic active state.
WhenHF is high, parasympathetic nervous system activity is dominant. High HF can indicate a parasympathetic active, relaxed, or tired state.

Good response

Good condition

 Sympathetic activity LF

6.12
Parasympathetic activity HF

12.7

Weak response

Relaxing after exercise

 Sympathetic activity LF

18.7
Parasympathetic activity HF

46.2

No response

Exhaustion,
but in a situation where you have to work

 Sympathetic activity LF

6.7
Parasympathetic activity HF

20.3

What to expect.
The neurovascular coupling system holds promise for various clinical applications beyond preventative screening, including:
Early detection of neurological disorders: By monitoring changes in neurovascular responses, the system could aid in the early detection of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, potentially enabling timely intervention and improved patient outcomes.
Assessing cardiovascular health: Understanding neurovascular coupling dynamics can provide insights into cardiovascular health. The system’s ability to measure blood flow responses could assist in assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, stroke, and coronary artery disease, with implications for personalized DM strategies.
Evaluating cognitive function: Neurovascular coupling plays a crucial role in cognitive function. Utilizing this system, researchers and clinicians can explore the relationship between cerebral blood flow regulation and cognitive processes, offering valuable insights into conditions like dementia and cognitive decline.
Monitoring stroke recovery: Following a stroke, neurovascular coupling may be impaired. This system could help monitor neurovascular recovery post-stroke, guiding rehabilitation strategies and assessing treatment efficacy.
Pharmacological research and development: The system’s capability to assess neurovascular responses can be leveraged in pharmacological research to evaluate the efficacy of drugs targeting neurovascular regulation. This can accelerate the development of novel treatments for various neurological and cardiovascular conditions, potentially reshaping DM strategies through innovative therapeutic interventions.
Overall, the neurovascular coupling system presents a multifaceted approach to understanding and addressing diverse clinical challenges, offering potential applications across neurology, cardiology, cognitive science, rehabilitation, and pharmaceutical development, with transformative implications for DM practices.

Advantages of the LSFG-NAVI Flicker System

This simple system provides the following benefits:
  • Less irritating and lower risk for subjects compared with ordinary flicker tests.
  • Non-subjective assessment of stress response by evaluating the blood flow.
  • Good reproducibility of measurements.

This flicker function is provided by optional paid plug-in software.

LSFG Products

Real-Time Observation of Blood Flow Change

HeartBeatMap

LSFG-NAVI

LSFG-Micro

LSFG-LITE

LSFG-NAVI

for Humans

LSFG-Micro

for Rats and Mice

LSFG-LITE

for Rabbits and Monkeys

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