Altered Brain Morphology and Functional Connectivity in Postmenopausal Women: Whole-Brain and Thalamic Subnuclei Analysis with fMRI

Motivation: The transition to menopause is associated with various physiological changes, including alterations in brain structure and function. However, menopause-related structural and functional changes are poorly understood. Goal(s): This study compared functional connectivity and brain volume changes in specialized with thalamic subnuclei between premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Approach: T1-weighted sagittal images and resting-state functional MR data were collected. Results: Postmenopausal women showed significantly smaller cortical surface in the left medial orbitofrontal cortex (mOFC) compared to premenopausal women as well as significantly decreased functional connectivity between the left mOFC and the right thalamus was observed. Impact: This study highlights specific brain regions affected by menopause, providing insights into the neural basis of increased neurodegenerative risk in postmenopausal women. These findings may guide future research on hormone-related interventions and inform clinicians on targeted treatments for cognitive health.