Metabolic syndrome components moderate the association between executive function and functional connectivity in the
Janelle T Foret1, Maria Dekhtyar1, Alex C Birdsill2
1Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, 108 E Dean Keeton, Stop A8000, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.
Brain Imaging and Behavior
|November 12, 2020
Summary
Metabolic Syndrome impacts executive function in middle-aged adults. Reduced Default Mode Network connectivity, linked to more syndrome components, predicts poorer executive performance, not memory.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) significantly increases the risk of cognitive decline in middle-aged adults.
- Altered functional connectivity within the Default Mode Network (DMN) during resting state is an early marker of brain vulnerability.
- Understanding the interplay between MetS and brain function is crucial for midlife cognitive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between DMN resting-state functional connectivity and cognitive performance (memory and executive functions).
- To examine how MetS components influence this relationship in middle-aged individuals.
- To identify potential neural mechanisms underlying cognitive changes associated with MetS.
Main Methods:
- Seed-based Correlation Analyses were conducted using the posterior cingulate cortex as a seed.
- Resting-state functional connectivity within the DMN was assessed.
- 200 participants aged 40-61 with varying numbers of MetS components were included.
Main Results:
- A significant interaction was found between the number of MetS components and DMN connectivity predicting executive function (p = .004).
- Higher numbers of MetS components were associated with negative relationships between DMN connectivity and executive function.
- No significant associations were observed for memory performance.
Conclusions:
- Accumulated cardiovascular disease risk factors, indicated by MetS components, disrupt brain functional relationships.
- DMN functional connectivity is specifically vulnerable in relation to executive function in the context of MetS.
- Further research into compensatory mechanisms supporting midlife cognitive function is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
579
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
579
01:19High-Level and Low-Level Awareness
527
Controlled processes in human consciousness represent high-alert mental states where individuals deliberately focus their attention on achieving specific goals. Controlled processes can be seen in situations like mastering new technology, where a person might become so absorbed that they ignore surrounding distractions. Such processes involve selective attention, requiring one to concentrate on particular elements of experience while disregarding others. These are governed by executive...
527
01:13Functional Brain Systems: Reticular Formation
3.5K
The reticular formation is a complex network of gray and white matter located within the brainstem extending from the medulla to the midbrain.
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
3.5K
01:15Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System
5.3K
The limbic system, often called the "emotional brain," is a complex set of structures located deep within the brain. The intricate network of the limbic system supports a wide range of psychological functions, from emotional regulation to memory formation and sensory processing. This functional brain region encompasses specific parts of the diencephalon and the cerebrum, integrating the higher mental functions of the cerebral cortex with the primitive emotional responses of the deep brain...
5.3K