Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) technology, characterized by its high resolution, minimal biological impact, and high  sensitivity, has become a cornerstone in biomedical research. Its application spans various domains, showing  significant promise for disease diagnosis. Currently, the majority of PAI research is conducted using animal models, with human clinical applications still in early development. This paper reviews the fundamental principles of  PAI and explores its use in animal brain imaging studies. It addresses the current challenges and limitations of  the technology and evaluates the potential for extending these techniques to human cerebral imaging. PAI offers  substantial benefits for diagnosing neurological disorders, and its adaptation for human brain studies is crucial for advancing our understanding of neuropathogenesis, improving early disease detection, and monitoring treatment effectiveness. Continued advancements in PAI are expected to not only augment its role in neuroscience research but also establish it as a valuable tool in clinical diagnostics.