Altered functional networks in long ‐term unilateral hearing loss: A connectome analysis

ConclusionsThis study revealed connectome‐level alterations involved in multiple large‐scale networks related to sensory and higher‐level cognitive functions in long‐term UHL patients. These reorganizations of the brain in UHL patients may depend on the stage of deafness and hearing level. Together, our findings provided empirical evidence for understanding the neuroplastic mechanisms underlying hearing impairment, establishing potential biomarkers for monitoring the progression and further treatment effects for UHL patients. Connectome‐level alteration involved in sensory and higher‐level cognitive networks was observed in UHL patients. Specific altered intranetwork connections were significantly correlated with clinical measures in UHL patients. Future work might use functional neuroimaging assessments to best formulate a comprehensive clinical treatment plan for UHL patients.

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/resolve/doi?DOI=10.1002%2Fbrb3.912

Source: Brain and Behavior - January 18, 2018 Category: Neurology Authors: Yanyang Zhang, Zhiqi Mao, Shiyu Feng, Xinyun Liu, Lan Lan, Jun Zhang, Xinguang Yu Tags: ORIGINAL RESEARCH Source Type: research