Diffusion tensor tractography reveals disrupted topological efficiency in white matter structural networks in...

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The topological organization of white matter (WM) structural networks in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains poorly understood.
• Investigating brain network alterations is crucial for understanding MS pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map and analyze WM structural networks in MS patients using diffusion tensor imaging and tractography.
• To investigate alterations in network efficiency and their correlation with clinical parameters in MS.

Main Methods:

• Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and deterministic tractography were used to create WM structural networks.
• Graph theoretical methods were applied to analyze network properties in 39 MS patients and 39 healthy controls.
• Network efficiency was assessed globally and locally, with correlations to clinical scores.

Main Results:

• Both MS patients and controls exhibited small-world properties in their WM networks.
• MS patients demonstrated significantly reduced global and local network efficiencies compared to controls.
• The most significant reductions in network efficiency were observed in sensorimotor, visual, default-mode, and language networks.
• Decreased network efficiencies correlated significantly with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores, disease duration, and WM lesion load.

Conclusions:

• Multiple sclerosis disrupts the integrity of large-scale brain systems, impacting WM structural network organization.
• Topology-based brain network analysis shows potential as a biomarker for MS diagnosis, progression monitoring, and treatment evaluation.