Abnormal brain functional network dynamics in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with depression
Sujuan Sun1, Yujing Chen1, Bing Zhao2
1Research Institute of Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, West Wenhua Street No. 107, Jinan, 250012, China.
Brain Imaging and Behavior
|May 30, 2024
Summary
Depression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients shows unique brain functional network dynamics. These findings in ALS patients with depression (ALS-D) may help understand mechanisms and develop treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Depression is a common comorbidity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
- Understanding the neural mechanisms of depression in ALS is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate distinct brain functional network dynamics in ALS patients with depression (ALS-D) compared to those without (ALS-ND) and healthy controls (HCs).
Main Methods:
- Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used.
- Functional connectivity state analysis and dynamic graph theory were applied.
- 32 ALS-D, 32 ALS-ND, and 64 HCs participated.
Main Results:
- ALS-D patients exhibited altered fraction rates (FR) in state 2 (decreased) and state 4 (increased) compared to HCs.
- Increased dwell time in state 4 was observed in ALS-D patients versus HCs.
- ALS-ND patients showed a decreased FR in state 3 compared to ALS-D patients.
Conclusions:
- Distinct brain functional network dynamics characterize depression in ALS patients.
- Findings offer insights into the pathophysiology of depression in ALS.
- Potential to inform therapeutic interventions for depressed ALS patients.
