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Resting state functional connectivity in the human spinal cord.

Robert L Barry1, Seth A Smith2, Adrienne N Dula3

  • 1Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Nashville, United States Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, United States robert.l.barry@vanderbilt.edu.

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Summary

Researchers found resting-state functional connectivity in the human spinal cord using blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) imaging. This discovery suggests spinal cord networks are inherently active, similar to the brain, impacting sensory and motor functions.

Keywords:
7 TeslafMRIfunctional connectivityresting statespinal cord

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)
  • Spinal Cord Physiology

Background:

  • Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) using blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) contrast is a key tool for mapping brain function.
  • Resting-state fMRI studies have revealed functional connectivity in the brain by analyzing low-frequency BOLD signal correlations.
  • Previously, substantiated reports of resting-state functional connectivity in the spinal cord were lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence of resting-state functional connectivity within the human spinal cord.
  • To determine if low-frequency BOLD signal fluctuations exhibit correlations in the spinal cord, analogous to brain circuits.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) contrast.
  • Analyzed low-frequency BOLD signal fluctuations in a cohort of healthy volunteers.
  • Examined correlations between voxels within the spinal cord during a resting state.

Main Results:

  • Observed robust functional connectivity between the left and right ventral (motor) horns of the spinal cord.
  • Detected significant functional connectivity between the left and right dorsal (sensory) horns of the spinal cord.
  • Demonstrated that low-frequency BOLD signal fluctuations are inherent in the spinal cord, similar to the brain.

Conclusions:

  • Resting-state functional connectivity exists within the human spinal cord.
  • These findings suggest intrinsic neural network activity in the spinal cord.
  • Spinal cord functional connectivity may provide insights into the mechanisms underlying sensory and motor functions.