Expression of microRNA induced by postoperative delirium-like behavior is associated with long-term default mode

Yang Liu1,2, Huiru Feng1, Huiqun Fu1

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Postoperative delirium (POD) is linked to changes in brain connectivity and specific microRNA and gene expressions. This study enhances the understanding and reproducibility of analyzing these default mode network (DMN) changes.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Genetics
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) is crucial for studying default mode network (DMN) alterations in postoperative delirium (POD).
  • The reproducibility and interpretability of rs-fMRI analyses for POD require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between delirium-like behavior, microRNA (miRNA) and gene expression changes, and DMN functional connectivity (FC) alterations in a rodent model.
  • To enhance the reproducibility and interpretability of rs-fMRI data analysis in the context of POD.

Main Methods:

  • Induction of delirium-like behavior via tibial fixation surgery and isoflurane anesthesia.
  • Evaluation of behavioral and inflammatory responses, followed by miRNA and target gene sequencing.
  • Analysis of DMN functional connectivity (FC) using rs-fMRI and correlation with molecular changes.

Main Results:

  • Delirium-like behavior altered specific miRNAs (miR-34b-5p, miR-328-5p, miR-3505) and genes (Nos1, Tubb3, Gys1).
  • Significant changes in FC were observed in the hippocampus and auditory cortex.
  • Correlations were found between FC in hippocampus-auditory cortex pathways and specific miRNAs/genes (miR-34b-5p, miR-3505, Nos1, Tubb3).

Conclusions:

  • POD-induced miRNA and gene expression changes are associated with long-term DMN functional connectivity disruption, particularly involving the hippocampus.
  • The findings improve reproducibility and interpretability of rs-fMRI analysis for POD.
  • Identified molecular changes offer potential therapeutic targets for postoperative delirium.