Single-subject detection of speech network activation using functional near-infrared spectroscopy

Abstract

Abstract. Significance Most neuroimaging studies rely on group-level analyses, yet many clinical and translational applications require reliable inference at the level of individual participants. Aim We evaluated whether functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) can detect expected speech network related activation patterns at the single-subject level. Approach Twenty-seven adults completed simple listening and speaking tasks while fNIRS data were recorded over bilateral frontal, temporal, and parietal regions. Data were analyzed using general linear models with false discovery rate correction and physiologically informed criteria, including expected HbO/HbR directionality and cross-chromophore coupling. Results Group-level analyses revealed activation patterns consistent with prior literature, with widespread HbO increases and HbR decreases. At the single-subject level, most participants showed task-related activation within predefined cortical regions, although the number and spatial distribution of significant channels varied. Speaking elicited more robust and consistent activation than listening. HbO and HbR responses were positively associated across channels, indicating coherent neurovascular coupling. Conclusions fNIRS can detect physiologically plausible activation patterns at the individual level, even in brief paradigms. However, variability across participants highlights the need to optimize task design and signal quality for reliable single-subject inference.