Large-scale functional connectivity networks in the rodent brain.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Systems Neuroscience

Background:

• Resting-state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (rsfMRI) identifies large-scale neural networks in the human brain.
• These networks offer insights into brain function and neuropathological conditions.
• Studying these networks in preclinical species allows for controlled investigation of biological determinants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of rsfMRI in rodent models for studying brain functional connectivity.
• To highlight the ability of rodent rsfMRI to resolve large-scale brain networks mirroring human systems.
• To discuss the potential of rodent models for understanding neuropathological underpinnings of brain alterations.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent studies utilizing resting-state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (rsfMRI) in rodent species.
• Analysis of identified large-scale brain networks in rats and mice.
• Discussion of experimental and methodological confounds in rodent rsfMRI studies.

Main Results:

• rsfMRI in rodents successfully resolves large-scale brain networks with neuroanatomical similarities to human functional systems.
• A putative evolutionary precursor to the human default mode network (DMN) has been identified in rodents.
• Connectivity mapping in transgenic rodent models shows potential for investigating neuropathological alterations.

Conclusions:

• rsfMRI in rodents is a valuable tool for studying brain functional connectivity and its disruption.
• Rodent models provide a platform for investigating the biological basis of human brain network alterations.
• This approach holds significant translational potential for basic and applied neuroscience research.