Background　Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a common imaging methods, along with the development of science and technology, a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), can reflect the level of neural activity of the brain, location of brain regions that perform special function, determination of cerebral metabolism, nerve fiber tracer.　Objective　Advantages of brain imaging technology and the current application situation are summarized in this paper.　Content　This article reviews the fMRI containing blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), magnetic resonance spectral imaging (MRS), the three technologies in cognitive dysfunction related research.　Trend　This review covers research advances that exploring the changes of functional areas in patients, providing an objective and intuitive imaging basis for early prevention and diagnosis.