Two-year dynamic functional network connectivity in clinically isolated syndrome. (May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rocca, Maria A; Hidalgo de La Cruz, Milagros; Valsasina, Paola; Mesaros, Sarlota; Martinovic, Vanja; Ivanovic, Jovana; Drulovic, Jelena; Filippi, Massimo
• Is Part Of: Multiple sclerosis. Volume 26:Number 6(2020)
• Page Start: 645
• Page End: 658
• Publication Date: 2020-05
• Subjects: Multiple sclerosis -- clinically isolated syndrome -- resting state -- dynamic functional network connectivity -- longitudinal -- default-mode network; Central nervous system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Myelin sheath -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Inflammation -- Periodicals; Multiple sclerosis -- Periodicals; Central Nervous System Diseases -- Periodicals; Demyelinating Diseases -- Periodicals; Inflammation -- Periodicals; Multiple Sclerosis -- Periodicals; Système nerveux central -- Maladies -- Périodiques; Gaine de myéline -- Maladies -- Périodiques; Inflammation (Pathologie) -- Périodiques; Sclérose en plaques -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 616.834005
• DOI: 10.1177/1352458519837704
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1352-4585

Abstract

Background: The features of functional network connectivity reorganization at the earliest stages of MS have not been investigated yet. Objective: To combine static and dynamic analysis of resting state (RS) functional connectivity (FC) to identify mechanisms of clinical dysfunction and recovery occurring in clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) patients. Methods: RS functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and clinical data were prospectively acquired from 50 CIS patients and 13 healthy controls (HC) at baseline, month 12 and month 24. Between-group differences and longitudinal evolution of network FC were analysed across 41 functionally relevant networks. Results: At follow-up, 47 patients developed MS. Disability remained stable (and relatively low). CIS and HC exhibited two recurring RS FC states (states 1 and 2, showing low and high internetwork connectivity, respectively). At baseline, patients showed reduced state 2 connectivity strength in the default-mode and cerebellar networks, and no differences in global dynamism versus HC. A selective FC reduction in networks affected by the clinical attack was also detected. At follow-up, increased state 2 connectivity strength and global connectivity dynamism was observed in patients versus HC. Conclusion: Longitudinal FC modifications occurring relatively early in the course of multiple sclerosis may represent a protective mechanism contributing to preserve clinical function over time.