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Changes of network controllability and structural-function coupling in cerebral small vessel disease
Chengxia Liu1, Tian Tian1, Yuanyuan Qin1
1Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
Brain Structure & Function
|July 29, 2025
Summary
Cerebral small vessel disease alters brain network control and structural-function coupling, impacting cognitive function. These changes correlate with white matter injury severity, offering insights into disease dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Systems Biology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a common cerebrovascular disorder.
- Understanding the complex network dynamics and structural-function relationships in CSVD is crucial for cognitive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate alterations in network controllability and structural-function coupling in patients with CSVD.
- To explore the association between these neuroimaging metrics and cognitive impairment in CSVD.
Main Methods:
- Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) were used in 51 CSVD patients and 41 controls.
- Network control theory (average and modal controllability) and structural-function coupling were analyzed.
- Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental Scale Examination (MMSE) and Trail Making Test (TMT).
Main Results:
- CSVD patients exhibited altered global and regional network controllability, with higher global average controllability but lower left prefrontal cortex controllability.
- Significant correlations were found between controllability metrics, cognitive scores (MMSE, TMT), and white matter injury severity.
- Structural-function coupling alterations were associated with cognitive performance, particularly TMT scores.
Conclusions:
- Network control theory and structural-function coupling analysis reveal significant brain network disruptions in CSVD.
- These neuroimaging markers are linked to cognitive deficits and white matter injury, providing potential biomarkers for CSVD.
- Integrating these approaches offers a comprehensive framework for understanding CSVD pathophysiology and cognitive impairment.
