Foreign Language Learning in Older Adults Modifies Resting-State Functional Connectivity Between the Subcortical
Giovanna Bubbico1,2, Federica Tomaiuolo2,3, Carlo Sestieri1,2
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
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.
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.
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