The effect of music on the structure and function of the preterm neonatal brain: A systematic review

Introduction: Preterm birth poses significant risks to neonatal brain development due to disrupted in-utero maturation. Music, as a structured auditory stimulus, has emerged as a potential non-invasive intervention to support neurodevelopment in preterm neonates. This systematic review evaluates the effects of music exposure on the structure and function of the preterm neonatal brain. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect was conducted for English-language studies from 2014–2024. Inclusion criteria focused on studies involving preterm neonates receiving music-based interventions with outcomes related to brain structure or function. Out of 608 screened records, 9 studies met eligibility criteria and underwent quality assessment using reliable tools. Results: Nine studies involving 283 neonates (118 preterm with music exposure) were included. Interventions ranged from parental singing to recorded music. Neuroimaging and electrophysiological assessments revealed that music exposure enhanced auditory processing, functional connectivity, and cortical structure. Notably, music-stimulated brain regions extended beyond auditory cortices, engaging networks related to emotion, memory, and motor planning. Several studies indicated that music-exposed preterms exhibited brain patterns more closely resembling those of full-term neonates. Conclusions: Music-based interventions show promising neuroprotective and neurodevelopmental effects in preterm neonates, enhancing both structural maturation and functional connectivity. Given its safety and potential long-term benefits, music therapy may be a valuable addition to neonatal care. Further large-scale, longitudinal studies are needed to establish standardized protocols and assess long-term outcomes.