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A Method for Investigating Age-related Differences in the Functional Connectivity of Cognitive Control Networks Associated with Dimensional Change Card Sort Performance

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Foreign Language Learning in Older Adults Modifies Resting-State Functional Connectivity Between the Subcortical

Giovanna Bubbico^1,2, Federica Tomaiuolo^2,3, Carlo Sestieri^1,2

¹Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences G. D'annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara Chieti Italy.

Aging Medicine (Milton (N.S.W))

|May 14, 2026

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Learning a new language (FLL) reshapes brain connectivity, particularly between subcortical and cortical regions. This foreign language learning enhances cognitive function and supports brain plasticity in older adults.

Keywords:

CB1 receptor NTRK2 gene expression aging resting‐state functional connectivity semantic memory subcortical networks

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cognitive Science
Neuroimaging

Background:

Foreign Language Learning (FLL) impacts neocortical resting-state functional connectivity (rs-FC).
The effect of FLL on subcortical-cortical connectivity is not well understood.
Subcortical regions are crucial for integrating cortical networks.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate how FLL affects rs-FC between subcortical and cortical brain regions.
To explore if FLL-induced changes in connectivity are linked to molecular markers of plasticity.
To determine if these changes correlate with cognitive performance improvements.

Main Methods:

Twenty-seven older adults participated in a 16-week FLL intervention or control.
Resting-state fMRI data were analyzed using seed-based connectivity targeting subcortical structures.
rs-FC differences were correlated with plasticity-related gene/receptor expression and cognitive data.

Main Results:

FLL induced significant changes in subcortico-cortical rs-FC, notably in thalamocortical and striato-cortical circuits.
Connectivity changes overlapped with brain areas expressing CB1 and NTRK2.
Modulated pallidal connectivity correlated with improved semantic memory.

Conclusions:

FLL selectively reorganizes subcortico-cortical networks, demonstrating functional plasticity.
The findings align with molecular markers of plasticity and cognitive gains.
FLL is a viable strategy for maintaining brain function in aging individuals.