Altered Self-Referential-Related Brain Regions in Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Depersonalization-derealization disorder (DPD) is characterized by persistent feelings of unreality.
• Understanding the neural underpinnings of DPD is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate alterations in brain network topology and properties within self-referential brain regions in individuals with DPD.
• To identify potential neuroimaging biomarkers for DPD using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI).

Main Methods:

• Utilized rs-fMRI data to define self-referential brain networks.
• Performed topographical and functional connectivity analyses.
• Developed a machine learning model for DPD classification based on identified network properties.

Main Results:

• Significant alterations in connectivity were observed in DPD patients compared to controls.
• Specific correlations were found between subjective experiences (unreality, perceptual alterations) and brain connectivity.
• Graph theoretical analysis indicated increased local/global efficiency and decreased characteristic path length.
• A machine learning model achieved high accuracy (0.885) and AUC (0.928) in classifying DPD.

Conclusions:

• DPD is associated with distinct alterations in brain topography and network properties within self-referential networks.
• Changes in cortical midline structures and the insula may underlie DPD mechanisms.
• These findings highlight potential targets for future research and therapeutic interventions in DPD.