Sex-specific topological structure associated with dementia via latent space estimation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Network Science
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Investigating sex-specific topological structures in Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia.
• Utilizing a novel latent space estimation technique for advanced analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify sex differences in brain network topology associated with AD.
• To explore the role of centrality in dementia-related dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• Applied a probabilistic approach for latent space estimation.
• Extended multiplex network modeling to preserve transitivity and modularity.
• Analyzed functional connectomes to capture higher-order dependencies.

Main Results:

• Observed sex differences in network topology: females showed more default mode network (DMN)-centered hyperactivity, males showed more limbic system (LS)-centered hyperactivity.
• Both sexes exhibited DMN-centered hypoactivity.
• Found stronger associations between connectivity changes and regional centrality in females compared to males.

Conclusions:

• Dementia-related neurodegeneration involves sex-specific network topology, centrality, and DMN-centered changes.
• Network topology plays an active role in neurodegeneration, potentially leading to whole-brain destabilization.
• Findings provide a comprehensive view of dementia's impact on brain networks, highlighting sex-based distinctions.