Amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) alterations in heart transplant patients with cognitive impairment: A resting-state fMRI study

Motivation: The relationship between changes in functional brain activity and cognitive decline in heart transplant patients has not been elucidated. Goal(s): We aimed to investigate brain regions that play an important role in cognitive decline after heart transplantation. Approach: fMRI imaging and cognitive assessment were performed in heart transplant patients and compared with healthy controls. Results: Cognitive function declined after heart transplantation compared to healthy controls, and neural responses in key brain regions were both active and diminished in heart transplant patients. Impact: ALFF may serve as a potential neuroimaging marker to help identify patients at higher risk of cognitive impairment after heart transplantation. This would facilitate early intervention and personalized care.