Investigating the Neural Correlates of Percepts Using Magnetoencephalography and Magnetic Source Imaging

Abstract

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) has become an important tool for neuroscientists.<br />The high temporal resolution and the low signal-to-noise ratio of MEG provide advantages that other neuroscientific methods do not.<br />Owing to recent findings concerning the relationship between perception and neuronal oscillations, more attention is being drawn to the importance of MEG. This chapter provides an introduction to oscillatory brain dynamics and outlines the fundamental and recent research on this topic. It also includes an overview of the basic principles of MEG and compares MEG with other neuroscientific methods such as imaging techniques like functional magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography and electroencephalography. Finally, as an example of the application of MEG in current research, a short review of our work on tinnitus is provided, including links to current research on general perception.