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Differential Patterns of Gyral and Sulcal Morphological Changes During Normal Aging Process.
Hsin-Yu Lin1,2, Chu-Chung Huang2,3, Kun-Hsien Chou2,4
1Centre for Research and Development in Learning, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience
|February 22, 2021
Summary
Brain aging shows significant sulcal thinning, more than gyral changes. This research reveals how cortical folding patterns change with age, impacting brain function and gray matter degeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Radiology
- Human Anatomy
Background:
- The cerebral cortex's gyri and sulci are crucial for brain function.
- Brain atrophy and cognitive decline are known aging phenotypes.
- Detailed age-related changes in cortical folding remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate age-related morphological changes in gyral and sulcal regions.
- Elucidate age-dependencies of cortical folding patterns.
- Understand mechanisms of gray matter degeneration in aging.
Main Methods:
- Utilized MR imaging data from 417 healthy adults (21-92 years).
- Analyzed pial and white matter surfaces of gyri and sulci.
- Applied quadratic models to assess age-dependencies of cortical thickness and curvature.
Main Results:
- Sulcal thinning is the most prominent age-related pattern, exceeding gyral changes.
- Gyrification of pial and white matter surfaces showed differential age effects.
- Findings suggest vulnerability in functional segregation during aging.
Conclusions:
- Propose a morphological model of brain aging.
- Highlight sulcal thinning as a key aging pattern.
- Provide a framework for understanding gray matter degeneration mechanisms.
