An amygdala-centered effective connectivity network in trait anxiety
Jingjing Chang1, Xin Liu2, Song Xue3,4
1Institute of Psychology, School of Public Policy, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
Brain Imaging and Behavior
|December 11, 2023
Summary
This study reveals how brain regions connect differently in individuals with high trait anxiety. Understanding these amygdala network changes offers insights into anxiety disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- The amygdala is crucial for trait anxiety.
- Limited understanding of amygdala-centered effective connectivity in trait anxiety.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate directional connectivity patterns of the amygdala network in relation to trait anxiety.
- Utilize Granger Causal analysis in a large cohort of young adults.
Main Methods:
- Granger Causal analysis applied to functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data.
- Examined directional connectivity between the amygdala and other brain regions.
- Correlated connectivity patterns with trait anxiety scores in 424 young adults.
Main Results:
- Negative association between trait anxiety and Granger causality from the left middle frontal gyrus and right superior frontal gyrus to the right amygdala.
- Increased effective connectivity from the left amygdala to the left hippocampus observed with higher trait anxiety.
- Identified specific prefrontal cortex-amygdala-hippocampus circuitry alterations linked to trait anxiety.
Conclusions:
- The prefrontal cortex-amygdala-hippocampus neural circuitry is significant in the neurobiology of trait anxiety.
- Findings enhance comprehension of trait anxiety mechanisms.
- Results may inform prevention and treatment strategies for anxiety-related disorders.
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