Mnemonic strategy training modulates functional connectivity at rest in mild cognitive impairment: Results from a randomized controlled trial

Author(s):Show less -

Simon, Sharon Sanz ; Hampstead, Benjamin M. ; Nucci, Mariana P. ; Ferreira, Luiz Kobuti ; Duran, Fabio L. S. ; Fonseca, Luciana M. ; Martin, Maria da Graca M. ; Avila, Renata ; Porto, Fabio H. G. ; Brucki, Sonia M. D. ; Martins, Camila B. ; Tascone, Lyssandra S. ; Amaro Jr, Edson ; Busatto, Geraldo F. ; Bottino, Cassio M. C.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ALZHEIMERS & DEMENTIA-TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH & CLINICAL INTERVENTIONS; v. 6, n. 1, p. 12-pg., 2020-01-01.

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. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 12/51699-1 - Episodic memory training for face and name association in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment: cognitive measures and functional resonance magnetic imaging outcomes
• Grantee: Cássio Machado de Campos Bottino
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/50010-0 - Prevention and Treatment of Depression in Older People: A Population-Based Study
• Grantee: Geraldo Busatto Filho
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/50329-6 - Translational neuroscience of Alzheimer's disease: preclinical and clinical studies of b-amyloid peptide and other biomarkers
• Grantee: Geraldo Busatto Filho
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants