Alterations of White Matter Network Properties in Patients With Functional Constipation

Abstract

Background: The abnormalities in brain function and structure of patients with functional constipation (FC) have been identified using multiple neuroimaging studies and have confirmed the abnormal processing of visceral sensation at the level of the central nervous system (CNS) as an important reason for FC. As an important basis for central information transfer, the role of the white matter (WM) networks in the pathophysiology of FC has not been investigated. This study aimed to explore the topological organization of WM networks in patients with FC and its correlation with clinical variables.Methods and Analysis: In this study, 70 patients with FC and 45 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects (HS) were recruited. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data and clinical variables were acquired from each participant. WM networks were constructed using the deterministic fiber tracking approach, and the global and nodal properties of the WM networks were compared using graph theory analysis between patients with FC and HS. The relationship between the representative nodal characteristics–nodal betweenness and clinical parameters was assessed using partial correlation analysis.Results: Patients with FC showed increased nodal characteristics in the left superior frontal gyrus (orbital part), right middle frontal gyrus (orbital part), and right anterior cingulate and paracingulate (P < 0.05, corrected for false discovery rate) and decreased nodal characteristics in the left caudate and left thalamus (P < 0.05, corrected for false discovery rate) compared with HS. The duration of FC was negatively correlated with the nodal betweenness of the left thalamus (r = −0.354, P = 0.04, corrected for false discovery rate).Conclusion: The results indicated the alternations in WM networks of patients with FC and suggested the abnormal visceral sensation processing in the CNS from the perspective of large-scale brain WM network.

Abnormal developmental trends of functional connectivity in young children with infantile esotropia

“…The ORBsup and REC are constituent part of the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) in the prefrontal lobe ( Felix et al, 2021 ), where the brain processes and transmits various sensory information, including visual, auditory, somatosensory and olfactory information, integrates visceral sensorimotor information, and involves in visuo-affective prediction ( Kringelbach, 2005 ; Chaumon et al, 2014 ; Peihong et al, 2021 ). Reduced cortical thickness in OFC has been observed in patients with concomitant strabismus ( Yin et al, 2021 ).…”

Beyond nodes and edges: a bibliometric analysis on graph theory and neuroimaging modalities

“…This was substantiated by their consistent activity and extensive exploration over time. For instance, functional constipation, that exhibited sustained prominence, signified its pivotal role in understanding the brain’s functional dynamics, garnering ongoing interest and exploration ( Duan et al, 2021 ; Liu et al, 2021 ; Peihong et al, 2021 ; Yu et al, 2023 ). Conversely, emerging clusters, including sequence learning, showcased the field’s adaptability by embracing novel areas of investigation.…”

Gut Microbiome–Brain Alliance: A Landscape View into Mental and Gastrointestinal Health and Disorders

“…FC in patients would accompany mental disorders like anxiety and varying severity of depression . Evidence from recent neuroimaging studies illustrated that FC patients had significant structural and functional alterations in brain regions that are involved in visceral sensorimotor, cognitive control, and emotional regulation, − thereby confirming its reclassification as DGBI. Among these altered brain regions in FC patients is the anterior insula, which is generally regarded as a critical node for its essential role in processing interoceptive signals, modulating visceral activities, and regulating emotions and cognitions. ,,− …”