A – 59 Developmental Progression of Attention Networks in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: A Child-Adult Comparison Using Neuropsychological Testing and fMRI

Abstract Objective Individuals with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11.2DS) commonly exhibit attention deficits, yet the underlying neural mechanisms remain poorly defined. This review compares dorsal and ventral attention network functioning in children and adults with 22q11.2DS using neuropsychological data and task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Clarifying developmental changes in attentional control may inform age-specific cognitive interventions and early identification of psychiatric risk. Method Peer-reviewed studies were selected using PubMed and PsychINFO databases between 2000-2025 with the search terms: “22q11.2 deletion syndrome,” “attention networks,” “fMRI,” “children,” and “adults.” Forty-one studies met criteria, each including task-based attention measures or functional connectivity analyses comparing pediatric and adult 22q11.2DS samples. Data was extracted using PRISMA guidelines. Results Children with 22q11.2DS consistently demonstrated underactivation in the dorsal attention network (e.g., frontal eye fields, intraparietal sulcus). Adults showed increased yet inefficient reliance on ventral attention regions, particularly the right temporoparietal junction (Scariati et al., 2016; Maeder et al., 2021). Neuropsychological tasks, including the Continuous Performance Test, revealed persistent impairments in sustained attention and increased intra-individual variability (Shapiro et al., 2014). Longitudinal studies suggest a partial maturation of attentional circuitry, although deficits often persist into adulthood (Gothelf et al., 2007). Conclusion Attentional deficits in 22q11.2DS develop alongside changes in neural circuitry, suggesting an age-dependent reorganization of cognitive control systems. Intervening in childhood through focused attention strategies could enhance long-term neurocognitive trajectories and support more stable developmental outcomes. Further longitudinal neuroimaging studies are needed to tailor interventions across developmental stages.