Altered task-residual effective connectivity of motor and memory network in transient ischemic attack

Motivation: Little is known about underlying brain mechanisms that contribute to heightened risk of stroke and impairments in cognitive and motor functions of patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA). Goal(s): Our aim was to investigate abnormal effective connectivity in TIA during motor and working memory tasks. Approach: Spectral dynamic causal modelling with 7T fMRI was used to estimate the task-residual effective connectivity elicited during fist-closing and n-back tasks. Results: Patients with TIA showed increased effective connectivity toward the ipsilateral M1 and reduced connectivity to the SMA and PMC durn motor task, as well as increased connectivity among the PAR and CC during n-back tasks. Impact: The findings of aberrant task-residual effective connectivity within the motor and working memory networks in patients with TIA indicate potential decreased neural efficiency and disrupted control of motor and working memory functions, contributing to the physiological alterations in these individuals.