A large-scale study published in Nature Neuroscience offers unprecedented insights into the evolution of brain connectivity from birth to death. Researchers at Beijing Normal University suggest that their findings on brain evolution patterns could significantly advance future studies on various cognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders.
From birth until death, the human brain undergoes substantial structural connectivity and inter-regional harmony changes.
Tracking these changes over time is crucial, as it reveals key differences in the brains of individuals experiencing mental health issues or age-related cognitive decline. The study analyzed functional and structural MRI data from 33,250 participants, ranging from 32 weeks postmenstrual age to 80 years old, across 132 global regions.
The researchers compiled a comprehensive dataset, incorporating brain imaging data from tens of thousands of individuals collected worldwide as part of major initiatives like the Human Connectome Project (HCP) and the Developing Human Connectome Project. The team analyzed this extensive dataset and identified critical differences in brain functional network development. It pinpointed specific life stages when various brain regions exhibit stronger connections and more diverse connectivity patterns.
The study reveals that the strength and diversity of inter-regional brain connections peak during late adolescence and early middle age.
Researchers noted significant inflection points in the nonlinear growth curve of the global connectome’s average and variance, occurring in the late 30s and late 20s, respectively.
The team developed a detailed, system-level brain atlas that outlines a unique maturation timeline for functional differentiation across various brain systems throughout life.
This growth in inter-regional brain connectivity is organized along the spatiotemporal cortical axis, progressing from primary sensory-motor areas to higher-order association areas.
The research team’s analysis culminated in a brain atlas highlighting key life stages of functional differentiation. It particularly marks critical transition points during infancy, childhood, and adolescence that closely correlate with necessary skill acquisition and cognitive development milestones.
This study is expected to enhance our understanding of brain functional network evolution across the lifespan, potentially allowing for better quantification of variations in individual development, aging processes, and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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