Imagine the brain is a bustling city, with different neighborhoods representing different regions of activity. In this study, scientists used two strategies, fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo), to examine how brain activity changes as we age. They recruited 112 healthy individuals across various age groups and found that certain regions, like the superior temporal gyrus and inferior frontal gyrus, showed increased activity in older adults compared to middle-aged individuals. Additionally, the ReHo analysis revealed increased synchronization in the temporal lobe (hippocampus), precuneus, caudate, and thalamus as people aged. Interestingly, they also discovered correlations between age and brain activity, suggesting that as we grow older, there is both an increase in regional synchronization and a decrease in overall brain activation. These findings provide valuable insights into the complex nature of aging and highlight the usefulness of fALFF and ReHo techniques in understanding brain changes over time. To dive deeper into the fascinating world of spontaneous brain activity in healthy aging, check out the full article!
IntroductionThis study aims to explore whole-brain resting-state spontaneous brain activity using fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo) strategies to find differences among age groups within a population ranging from middle age to older adults.MethodsThe sample comprised 112 healthy persons (M = 68.80, SD = 7.99) aged 48–89 who were split into six age groups (< 60, 60–64, 65–69, 70–74, 75–79, and ≥ 80). Fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation and ReHo analyses were performed and were compared among the six age groups, and the significant results commonly found across groups were correlated with the gray matter volume of the areas and the age variable.ResultsIncreased activity was found using fALFF in the superior temporal gyrus and inferior frontal gyrus when comparing the first group and the fifth. Regarding ReHo analysis, Group 6 showed increased ReHo in the temporal lobe (hippocampus), right and left precuneus, right caudate, and right and left thalamus depending on the age group. Moreover, significant correlations between age and fALFF and ReHo clusters, as well as with their gray matter volume were found, meaning that the higher the age, the higher the regional synchronization, the lower the fALFF activation, and the lower gray matter of the right thalamus.ConclusionBoth techniques have been shown to be valuable and usable tools for disentangling brain changes in activation in a very low interval of years in healthy aging.
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.