Thalamocortical relationship in XXXX @entity1 with generalized spike and wave discharges - A multimodal neuroimaging study.

@entity1 @entity3762 @entity302
UNASSIGNED: Unlike focal or @entity302 , which has a confined range of influence, @entity3762 ( @entity3762 ) often affects the whole or a larger portion of the brain without obvious, known cause. It is important to understand the underlying network which generates @entity302 activity and through which @entity302 activity propagates. The aim of the present study was to investigate the thalamocortical relationship using non-invasive imaging modalities in a group of @entity3762 @entity1 . We specifically investigated the roles of the mediodorsal nuclei in the thalami and the medial frontal cortex in generating and spreading @entity3762 activities. We hypothesized that the connectivity between these two structures is key in understanding the generation and propagation of @entity302 activity in brains affected by @entity3762 . Using three imaging techniques of EEG, fMRI and EEG-informed fMRI, we identified important players in generation and propagation of generalized spike-and-wave discharges (GSWDs). EEG-informed fMRI suggested multiple regions including the medial frontal area near to the anterior cingulate cortex, mediodorsal nuclei of the thalamus, caudate nucleus among others that related to the GSWDs. The subsequent seed-based fMRI analysis revealed a reciprocal cortical and bi-thalamic functional connection. Through EEG-based Granger Causality analysis using (DTF) and adaptive DTF, within the reciprocal thalamocortical circuitry, thalamus seems to serve as a stronger source in driving cortical activity from initiation to the propagation of a GSWD. Such connectivity change starts before the GSWDs and continues till the end of the slow wave discharge. Thalamus, especially the mediodorsal nuclei, may serve as potential targets for deep brain stimulation to provide more effective treatment options for @entity1 with drug-resistant generalized @entity302 .
