Maternal prenatal distress exposure negatively associates with the stability of neonatal frontoparietal network

In this study, we investigated the impact of prenatal distress on the spatial and temporal properties of functional networks detected in functional MRI data from 20 naturally sleeping, term-born (age 25.85 ± 7.72 days, 11 males), healthy neonates. First, we performed group level independent component analysis (GICA) to evaluate an association between PD and the spatial configuration of the functional networks. Second, we search for an association with PD at the level of the stability of functional networks over time using leading eigenvector dynamics analysis (LEiDA). No statistically significant associations were detected at the spatial level for the GICA-derived networks. However, at the dynamic level, LEiDA revealed that maternal PD significantly decreased the stability of a frontoparietal network. These results imply that maternal PD may influence the stability of frontoparietal connections in neonatal brain network dynamics and adds to the cumulating evidence that frontal areas are especially sensitive to PSE. We advocate for early preventive intervention strategies regarding pregnant mothers. Nevertheless, future research venues are required to assess optimal intervention timing and methods for maximum benefit.PMID:37877207 | DOI:10.1080/10253890.2023.2275207

Source: Stress - October 25, 2023 Category: Research Authors: Jetro J Tuulari Olli Rajasilta Joana Cabral Morten L Kringelbach Linnea Karlsson Hasse Karlsson Source Type: research