The brain is a complex network, much like the bustling streets of a city. In a recent study, scientists investigated how changes in cortical thickness and functional connectivity relate to depression in Parkinson’s disease. They gathered a group of non-depressed PD patients, as well as those with minor and major depression, along with healthy controls. Analyzing the differences in cortical thickness, they found that patients with PD and major depression had decreased thickness in specific areas of the brain compared to those without depression. Moreover, they also discovered weakened connections between different brain regions associated with depression. By combining these measurements with clinical data, researchers found that they could predict PD patients with major depression quite accurately. This research sheds light on the neural underpinnings of depression in Parkinson’s disease and suggests that measuring cortical thickness and functional connectivity could serve as valuable diagnostic tools. Dive into the full article to learn more!
ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the association of altered cortical thickness and functional connectivity (FC) with depression in Parkinson’s disease (PD).Materials and methodsA total of 26 non-depressed PD patients (PD-ND), 30 PD patients with minor depression (PD-MnD), 32 PD patients with major depression (PD-MDD), and 30 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. Differences in cortical thickness among the four groups were assessed, and the results were used to analyze FC differences in regions of cortical atrophy. Binary logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were also performed to identify clinical features and neuroimaging biomarkers that might help in the prediction of PD-MDD.ResultsPatients with PD-MDD showed decreased cortical thickness compared to patients with PD-ND in the left superior temporal and right rostral middle frontal gyri (RMFG), as well as weak FC between the left superior temporal gyrus and right cerebellum posterior lobe and between right RMFG and right inferior frontal gyrus and insula. The combination of cortical thickness, FC, and basic clinical features showed strong potential for predicting PD-MDD based on the area under the ROC curve (0.927, 95% CI 0.854–0.999, p < 0.001).ConclusionPatients with PD-MDD show extensive cortical atrophy and FC alterations, suggesting that cortical thickness and FC may be neuroimaging-based diagnostic biomarkers for PD-MDD.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.