Characterization of Cognitive Function in Survivors of Diffuse Gliomas Using Morphometric Correlation Networks

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Diffuse gliomas are primary brain tumors with significant long-term effects.
• Survivors often experience cognitive deficits impacting quality of life.
• Understanding structural brain changes is crucial for managing long-term outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate structural brain alterations in diffuse glioma survivors.
• To explore the relationship between these structural changes and cognitive function.
• To identify key brain networks involved in cognitive resilience.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of high-resolution MRI scans from 24 diffuse glioma survivors.
• Neuropsychological testing and self-report questionnaires to assess cognitive function.
• Computation of morphometric correlation networks (MCNs) based on cortical thickness.

Main Results:

• Cortical thickness of the right insula negatively correlated with time since treatment.
• Left superior temporal gyrus cortical thickness positively correlated with cognitive performance.
• Survivors exhibited altered MCNs, with cognitively non-impaired individuals showing higher network stability.

Conclusions:

• Structural brain networks are altered in diffuse glioma survivors.
• Cortical structure adaptations may support cognitive function during survivorship.
• These findings highlight potential imaging biomarkers for cognitive outcomes.