Increased functional connectivity of white-matter in myotonic dystrophy type 1

Abstract

BackgroundMyotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is the most common and dominant inherited neuromuscular dystrophy disease in adults, involving multiple organs, including the brain. Although structural measurements showed that DM1 is predominantly associated with white-matter damage, they failed to reveal the dysfunction of the white-matter. Recent studies have demonstrated that the functional activity of white-matter is of great significance and has given us insights into revealing the mechanisms of brain disorders.Materials and methodsUsing resting-state fMRI data, we adopted a clustering analysis to identify the white-matter functional networks and calculated functional connectivity between these networks in 16 DM1 patients and 18 healthy controls (HCs). A two-sample t-test was conducted between the two groups. Partial correlation analyzes were performed between the altered white-matter FC and clinical MMSE or HAMD scores.ResultsWe identified 13 white-matter functional networks by clustering analysis. These white-matter functional networks can be divided into a three-layer network (superficial, middle, and deep) according to their spatial distribution. Compared to HCs, DM1 patients showed increased FC within intra-layer white-matter and inter-layer white-matter networks. For intra-layer networks, the increased FC was mainly located in the inferior longitudinal fasciculus, prefrontal cortex, and corpus callosum networks. For inter-layer networks, the increased FC of DM1 patients is mainly located in the superior corona radiata and deep networks.ConclusionResults demonstrated the abnormalities of white-matter functional connectivity in DM1 located in both intra-layer and inter-layer white-matter networks and suggested that the pathophysiology mechanism of DM1 may be related to the white-matter functional dysconnectivity. Furthermore, it may facilitate the treatment development of DM1.

A bibliometric analysis on the health behaviors related to mild cognitive impairment

“…Quality sleep is essential for memory consolidation, neuronal repair, and overall brain health, with disruptions in sleep patterns linked to an increased risk of cognitive impairment (Künstler et al, 2023). Similarly, nutrition plays a vital role, with a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins supporting brain function and reducing inflammation, which are associated with MCI risk (Li et al, 2022). Understanding the intricate interplay between these lifestyle factors and their collective impact on cognitive health is crucial for developing effective preventive strategies against MCI and promoting successful aging.…”