Do Infants Exhibit Adult-like Multi-scale Functional Networks?

Motivation: Despite two decades of infant rsfMRI studies, no comprehensive research has mapped functional networks in infants, which are widely studied as essential networks in adults. Goal(s): To provide a holistic view of multi-scale network existence in infants using robust methods and to explore any age-related associations with these identified networks. Approach: We apply a novel blind approach and a reference-informed method, with a template derived from 100k+ subjects, to identify functional networks in infants. We assess functional network connectivity and examine their age associations. Results: The study confirms that adult-like networks are present during infancy and continue to develop and mature with age. Impact: This study provides foundational insights into early brain network development, aiding clinicians and researchers in understanding infant neurodevelopment. It opens avenues for age-related biomarkers in the early diagnosis of developmental disorders, enhancing intervention timing and strategies.