Resting-state functional near-infrared spectroscopy in neurodegenerative diseases - A systematic review

To systematically review and summarize alterations found in resting-state activity as measured via functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) in neurodegenerative diseases.

fNIRS is a novel and emerging neuroimaging method suitable for a variety of study designs. Resting-state is the measure of brain activity in the absence of a task, which has been investigated for yielding information about neurodegenerative diseases, mainly using magnetic resonance imaging. We aimed to systematically review the usage of resting-state fNIRS (rsfNIRS) in neurodegenerative diseases.

Studies investigating people diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease and resting-state activity obtained with fNIRS using at least two channels.

We searched three databases for publications. After the screening, 16 studies were included in the systematic review. The quality of the studies was assessed, and data were extracted. Data were qualitatively synthesized and in the case of at least 10 similar studies, a meta-analysis was planned.

Most studies investigated Mild cognitive impairment (50%), followed by Alzheimer's disease (25%). Other neurodegenerative diseases encompassed Parkinson's disease, Multiple sclerosis, and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. All studies reported oxygenated hemoglobin. Still, studies were heterogeneous in terms of study design, measurement duration, fNIRS device, montage, pre-processing, and analyses. A meta-analysis was not considered possible due to this heterogeneity.

rsfNIRS shows promise in neurodegenerative disease, as most studies have observed resting-state alterations when compared to healthy controls. However, inconsistencies across studies limit data comparison and meta-analysis. Hence, we strongly advocate the application of fNIRS reporting guidelines and the establishment of rsfNIRS-specific guidelines. This will ensure reliable and comparable results in future research.