Functional and structural connectivity changes in a 6-OHDA Parkinsonian model

Motivation: Parkinson's disease(PD) is marked by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, yet the structural and functional connectivity changes underlying this pathology remain unclear. Goal(s): Our study aims to identify connectivity alterations related to PD deficits and adaptations, with FW-DTI for structural specificity. Approach: This study employs a combined FC and SC analysis with FW-DTI for structural specificity in 6-OHDA PD rat model that recapitulates dopaminergic degeneration. Results: Functional changes showed increased connectivity in motor-related networks and decreased connectivity in sensory-cognitive regions. Structurally, sensory pathways exhibited reduced connectivity aligned with PD-related deficits. FW-DTI analysis within SC-identified abnormal tracts highlighted microstructural changes linked to PD pathology. Impact: These findings underscore the value of integrating FC and SC analysis with FW-DTI in the 6-OHDA model, offering insights into PD pathology and potential biomarkers for neurodegenerative progression.