Functional topography of the neocortex predicts covariation in complex cognitive and basic motor abilities

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science
• Aging Research

Background:

• Cognitive and sensorimotor abilities are often studied separately, despite evidence of covariation that increases with age.
• Clinical assessments of sensory/motor function can predict cognitive decline and dementia risk.
• The neural basis for cognitive-sensorimotor covariation remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if covariation between cognitive and sensorimotor abilities in midlife is linked to shared neocortical network functional topography.
• To differentiate the neural underpinnings of motor versus sensory covariation with cognitive function.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Blood-Oxygen-Level-Dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data.
• Analyzed individualized functional topography maps from 769 participants aged 45.
• Examined the relationship between sensorimotor abilities and neocortical network variability.

Main Results:

• Variability in motor ability, specifically gait speed, was associated with individual differences in the functional topography of cognitive networks.
• Hearing ability did not show a similar association with the functional topography of cognitive networks.
• These findings suggest a convergence of function in higher-order neocortical networks.

Conclusions:

• Covariation between motor and cognitive abilities in midlife may stem from shared functional organization within higher-order neocortical networks.
• Gait speed could serve as a more integrated indicator of nervous system health than solely a measure of physical function.
• Understanding these neural links offers insights into age-related cognitive changes and neurological health.