Functional Brain Connectivity Differences between Aphasic and Neurotypical Brains

Abstract

Aphasia is a language disorder that can arise from brain damage, leading to difficulties in understanding, generating, or using language. Although the precise neural mechanisms are not fully elucidated, it is hypothesized that these disruptions involve altered communication and interaction among brain regions. In this study, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was employed to assess functional connectivity in both individuals with aphasia and neurotypical individuals. Functional connectivity is a measure of the way that brain regions communicate and interact with each other. The study participants performed a series of language-processing tasks, while their fMRI data was collected.  The study's findings showed that individuals with aphasia had unique functional brain connectivity patterns when compared to neurotypical individuals. These distinctions were most prominent in the left hemisphere, which is conventionally associated with language processing. In particular, individuals with aphasia demonstrated diminished functional connectivity between the language regions in the left hemisphere and other brain regions, including those in the right hemisphere and the frontal lobe. The study's findings suggest that differences in functional brain connectivity may contribute to language deficits in aphasia. The study's findings also hold significant implications for advancing our understanding of the neurological underpinnings of aphasia and the potential for improved diagnostic and therapeutic methods for individuals with this condition.