Correlation between memory performance and functional connectivity of the default mode neural network in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy

• Grant number: 24/01683-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: April 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Fernando Cendes
• Grantee: Bruna Augusto Martins
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Médicas (FCM). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/07559-3 - BRAINN - The Brazilian Institute of Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, AP.CEPID

Abstract

Epilepsy is a chronic non-communicable disease that affects individuals of all ages. It is estimated that temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most common form of focal epilepsy, accounting for 40% of cases in this population, which, in addition to structural damage, leads to functional losses with cognitive alterations. The evaluation of functionally connected neural networks provides an analysis of the relationship between the epileptogenic focus and other regions. There are models that allow observation in the brain's resting state network (RSN), including the default mode network (DMN). The DMN connects regions of the posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and hippocampal formation. The exact function of the DMN remains unclear; however, it is accepted that this system shows increased activity when the individual is focused on introspective activities, not directed to the external environment (e.g. when recalling autobiographical facts and events, recalling the past, and considering perspectives of other individuals). The DMN also involves the connections of specific regions related to the internal processes of memory and the limbic system. These are studied in relation to epilepsy, indicating connectivity alterations in patients with TLE when compared to controls. The present project will seek to evaluate the relationship between the DMN and the performance of verbal and non-verbal memory from the application of subtests of the Wechsler Memory Scale (EWM-R), subtests of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Adults (WAIS-III), and the Rey Auditory-Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT).