Which brain imaging technique provides insights into both structure and function?

The technique that provides insights into both the structure and function of the brain is functional magnetic resonance imaging, commonly known as fMRI. This imaging method measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow. When a specific area of the brain is more active, it requires more oxygen, and fMRI can identify these changes in real-time, allowing for functional observations during various tasks or stimuli.

Additionally, fMRI also captures structural images of the brain, much like standard MRI, which shows detailed pictures of brain anatomy. This dual capability makes fMRI particularly valuable in research and clinical settings because it helps to correlate brain structure with brain function, offering a comprehensive view of how different parts of the brain interact and relate to behaviors or cognitive processes.

Other imaging methods like MRI and CT scans primarily focus on structural details without providing real-time functional insights. PET scans can measure brain activity by using radioactive tracers but do not provide the same level of structural detail that fMRI does.