Neurophysiological Gradient in the Subthalamic Nucleus and Its Relation to Motor Symptoms and Apathy in Parkinson's Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Bernasconi Elena, Amstutz Deborah, Averna Alberto, Fischer Petra, Sousa Mario, Debove Ines, Petermann Katrin, Alva Laura, Magalhães Andreia D., Lachenmayer M. Lenard, Nguyen Thuy-Anh K., Schuepbach Michael, Nowacki Andreas, Pollo Claudio, Krack Paul, Tinkhauser Gerd
Primary Institution: Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
Hypothesis
The study investigates the relationship between neurophysiological properties of the subthalamic nucleus and motor symptoms and apathy in Parkinson's disease patients.
Conclusion
The study found that the spectral gradient in the subthalamic nucleus may inform about both motor and neuropsychiatric symptoms, supporting integrative treatment strategies.
Supporting Evidence
- The study characterized the neurophysiological properties of the subthalamic nucleus in 69 Parkinson's disease patients.
- A significant positive power gradient was found between 8-12 Hz, indicating increased alpha power toward the ventral STN.
- Lower ventral alpha power was associated with higher apathy scores.
- High dorsal beta power correlated with better rigidity response to deep brain stimulation.
- The spectral gradient may inform about both motor and neuropsychiatric domains.
- Patients with at least one gradient showed both ventral theta-alpha power and dorsal beta power.
- Significant differences in spectral power were found between functional subregions of the STN.
- The study supports the use of neurophysiological markers for optimizing treatment strategies in Parkinson's disease.
Takeaway
Doctors can learn how brain signals in a part of the brain called the subthalamic nucleus relate to movement problems and feelings of apathy in people with Parkinson's disease.
Methodology
The study analyzed neurophysiological data from 69 Parkinson's disease patients using implanted multi-contact deep brain stimulation leads to characterize spectral transitions within the subthalamic nucleus.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding factors influencing apathy scores were not fully controlled for.
Limitations
Pre-operative motor and neuropsychiatric scores were not assessed at the same time as LFP measurements, which may have reduced effect size.
Participant Demographics
The cohort consisted of 69 patients, with 41 males and 28 females, average age 62.1 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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