Resting state functional networks in 1-to-3-year-old typically developing children
Bosi Chen1, Annika Linke2, Lindsay Olson1
1Brain Development Imaging Laboratories, Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, United States; SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, United States.
Insights
Brain network development in toddlers shows increased specialization with age. Greater network homogeneity in key brain areas correlates with advanced early learning skills, regardless of age.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Early childhood is a critical period for brain functional network development and refinement.
- Understanding the maturational pathways of these networks is crucial but remains poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine large-scale resting-state functional networks in toddlers (1.5-3.5 years).
- To investigate the relationship between network organization, age, and early developmental skills.
Main Methods:
- Utilized resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from 24 typically developing toddlers during natural sleep.
- Derived network organization indices focusing on connectivity and spatial variability.
- Correlated network indices with age and standardized early learning assessments.
Main Results:
- Reduced spatial variability (increased homogeneity) in a default mode network (DMN) component was associated with older age, indicating greater specialization.
- Increased network homogeneity in higher-order networks (posterior DMN, salience, language) correlated with advanced developmental skills.
- These associations were observed independently of chronological age.
Conclusions:
- The study enhances understanding of brain functional network maturation during toddlerhood.
- Findings suggest a link between brain network organization, specifically homogeneity, and the development of cognitive and behavioral skills.
- Results highlight the importance of network specialization and homogeneity in early learning and development.
Abstract:
Brain functional networks undergo substantial development and refinement during the first years of life. Yet, the maturational pathways of functional network development remain poorly understood. Using resting-state fMRI data acquired during natural sleep from 24 typically developing toddlers, ages 1.5-3.5 years, we aimed to examine the large-scale resting-state functional networks and their relationship with age and developmental skills. Specifically, two network organization indices reflecting network connectivity and spatial variability were derived. Our results revealed that reduced spatial variability or increased network homogeneity in one of the default mode network components was associated with age, with older children displaying less spatially variable posterior DMN subcomponent, consistent with the notion of increased spatial and functional specialization. Further, greater network homogeneity in higher-order functional networks, including the posterior default mode, salience, and language networks, was associated with more advanced developmental skills measured with a standardized assessment of early learning, regardless of age. These results not only improve our understanding of brain functional network development during toddler years, but also inform the relationship between brain network organization and emerging cognitive and behavioral skills.
