Open AccessMnemonic strategy training modulates functional connectivity at rest in mild cognitive impairment: Results from a randomized controlled trial
Author(s) -
Simon Sharon Sanz,
Hampstead Benjamin M.,
Nucci Mariana P.,
Ferreira Luiz Kobuti,
Duran Fábio L. S.,
Fonseca Luciana M.,
Martin Maria da Graça M.,
Ávila Renata,
Porto Fábio H. G.,
Brucki Sônia M. D.,
Martins Camila B.,
Tascone Lyssandra S.,
Jr. Edson Amaro,
Busatto Geraldo F.,
Bottino Cássio M. C.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia: translational research and clinical interventions
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.49
H-Index - 30
ISSN - 2352-8737
DOI - 10.1002/trc2.12075
Subject(s) - functional magnetic resonance imaging , orbitofrontal cortex , fusiform gyrus , psychology , cognitive training , resting state fmri , audiology , cognition , neuroscience , middle frontal gyrus , medicine , prefrontal cortex
Abstract Introduction Mnemonic strategy training (MST) has been shown to improve cognitive performance and increase brain activation in those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, little is known regarding the effects of MST on functional connectivity (FC) at rest. The aim of the present study was to investigate the MST focused on face‐name associations effect on resting‐state FC in those with MCI Methods Twenty‐six amnestic MCI participants were randomized in MST (N = 14) and Education Program (active control; N = 12). Interventions occurred twice a week over two consecutive weeks (ie, four sessions). Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging was collected at pre‐ and post‐intervention. Regions of interest (ROIs) were selected based on areas that previously showed task‐related activation changes after MST. Changes were examined through ROI‐to‐ROI analysis and significant results were corrected for multiple comparisons. Results At post‐intervention, only the MST group showed increased FC, whereas the control group showed decreased or no change in FC. After MST, there was an increased FC between the left middle temporal gyrus and right orbitofrontal cortex. In addition, a time‐by‐group interaction indicated that the MST group showed greater increased FC between the right inferior frontal gyrus and left brain regions, such as fusiform gyrus, temporal pole, and orbitofrontal cortex relative to controls. Discussion MST enhanced FC in regions that are functionally relevant for the training; however, not in all ROIs investigated. Our findings suggest that MST‐induced changes are reflected in task‐specific conditions, as previously reported, but also in general innate connectivity. Our results both enhance knowledge about the mechanisms underlying MST effects and may provide neurophysiological evidence of training transfer.