Alternations and Applications of the Structural and Functional Connectome in Gliomas: A Mini-Review

Abstract

In the central nervous system, gliomas are the most common, but complex primary tumors. Genome-based molecular and clinical studies have revealed different classifications and subtypes of gliomas. Neuroradiological approaches have non-invasively provided a macroscopic view for surgical resection and therapeutic effects. The connectome is a structural map of a physical object, the brain, which raises issues of spatial scale and definition, and it is calculated through diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and functional MRI. In this study, we reviewed the basic principles and attributes of the structural and functional connectome, followed by the alternations of connectomes and their influences on glioma. To extend the applications of connectome, we demonstrated that a series of multi-center projects still need to be conducted to systemically investigate the connectome and the structural–functional coupling of glioma. Additionally, the brain–computer interface based on accurate connectome could provide more precise structural and functional data, which are significant for surgery and postoperative recovery. Besides, integrating the data from different sources, including connectome and other omics information, and their processing with artificial intelligence, together with validated biological and clinical findings will be significant for the development of a personalized surgical strategy.

Advanced Neuroimaging Approaches to Pediatric Brain Tumors

“…Preclinical studies in animal models have shown evidence of tumor-induced changes in resting brain connectivity, as well as intra-tumor connectivity changes in reference to tumor volume and angiogenesis using BOLD RS-fMRI [ 81 ]. Additionally, in vivo studies on brain network disruption and alterations in anatomical dysconnectivity (or connectomes) in patients with brain tumors of glial cell origin have contributed to advancing our knowledge of the complex nature of the structural–functional coupling of brain tumors [ 82 , 83 ]. Although still under investigation, multiple studies to date have demonstrated the concordance of RS-fMRI with task-based fMRI or intraoperative mapping, substantiating its clinical utility [ 69 , 80 , 84 , 85 , 86 , 87 , 88 ].…”

Investigation of neurophysiologic and functional connectivity changes following glioma resection using magnetoencephalography

“… 33 , 34 For instance, gliomas can directly damage white matter tracts and indirectly affect functional network organization. 35 Additionally, gliomas can cause increased or decreased functional connectivity depending on tumor location and characteristics. 36 , 37 These findings underscore the complex interplay between brain tumors and the brain’s intrinsic functional networks.…”

Perspective Chapter: Functional Human Brain Connectome in Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s Disease (PD)

“…Second, normative connectome can enhance surgical precision and hence improve treatment outcome of different neurosurgical procedures. For instance, for glioma patients who plan for resection surgery, the application of normative connectome can help in the identification of eloquent areas and motor tracts before operation, hence reducing the number of intra-operative stimulations required to safely confirm a tract, decreasing the likelihood of disruptive seizures, lowering the risks of postoperative neurological deficits, facilitating the resection, and making patients more comfortable during the operation [51,52]. Epilepsy surgery is another example.…”