Simultaneous Multi-channel Electroencephalogram (EEG) and resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI)

Motivation: While resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI) can effectively map brain-wide functional connectivity networks through blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signals, examining the neural basis of rsfMRI requires concurrent measurements of neural activity. Goal(s): To demonstrate the feasibility of simultaneous multi-channel EEG and rsfMRI experiments, while minimizing the artifacts in fMRI and EEG data. Approach: We implemented EEG recordings using skull-mounted MRI-compatible 16-channel electrodes, enabling concurrent measurements of neural activity and rsfMRI BOLD signals. Results: We showed artifact-free neural activity recordings without compromising the ability to map and quantify typical rsfMRI networks such as the homotopic interhemispheric connectivity in cortical, hippocampus, and subcortical regions. Impact: Our simultaneous recording approach successfully showed the feasibility of acquiring high-quality, artifact-free multi-channel EEG and fMRI data, establishing a robust methodological foundation for future integrated EEG-fMRI experiments.