Graph Neural Networks for Analyzing Trauma-Related Brain Structure in Children and Adolescents: A Pilot Study

This study explores the potential of graph neural networks (GNNs) in analyzing brain networks of children and adolescents exposed to trauma, addressing limitations in traditional neuroimaging approaches. MRI-based brain data from trauma-exposed and control groups were modeled as whole-brain networks using regions-of-interest (ROIs), with GNNs applied to capture complex, non-linear connectivity patterns. Results revealed that the trauma-exposed group exhibited simplified network structures with higher importance in regions associated with cognitive and emotional regulation, such as the posterior cerebellum. In contrast, the control group demonstrated richer connectivity patterns, emphasizing regions related to motor and visual processing, such as the Right Lingual Gyrus. Compared to traditional t-test results highlighting regional density differences, the GNN approach uncovered deeper, network-level insights into the relationships between brain regions. These findings demonstrate the utility of GNNs in advancing neuroimaging research, offering new perspectives on trauma’s impact on brain connectivity and paving the way for future applications in understanding neural mechanisms and interventions.