Personalized deep neural networks reveal mechanisms of math learning disabilities in children

Learning disabilities affect a substantial proportion of children worldwide, with far-reaching consequences for their academic, professional, and personal lives. Here we develop digital twins-biologically plausible personalized deep neural networks (pDNNs)-to investigate the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying learning disabilities in children. Our pDNN reproduces behavioral and neural activity patterns observed in affected children, including lower performance accuracy, slower learning rates, neural hyperexcitability, and reduced neural differentiation of numerical problems. Crucially, pDNN models reveal aberrancies in the geometry of manifold structure, providing a comprehensive view of how neural excitability influences both learning performance and the internal structure of neural representations. Our findings not only advance knowledge of the neurophysiological underpinnings of learning differences but also open avenues for targeted, personalized strategies designed to bridge cognitive gaps in affected children. This work reveals the power of digital twins integrating artificial intelligence and neuroscience to uncover mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders.