Newfound brain network ‘SCAN’ implicated in Parkinson’s disease, Pg2

Key Highlights:

• Research identifies a new brain network called SCAN (somatic cognitive action network) implicated in Parkinson's disease.
• The study found that Parkinson's disease is associated with abnormal strengthening of the SCAN network.
• SCAN connects to higher-order brain areas involved in coordinating movement.
• Preliminary trial showed that TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) directed at SCAN regions reduced tremors and instability in Parkinson's disease patients.

Detailed Insights:

• Parkinson's disease affects over 10 million people worldwide, causing difficulties in coordinated movement and motor control.
• Current treatments like levodopa and DBS (deep brain stimulation) have limitations, including variable effects and side effects.
• PFM (precision functional mapping), pioneered by Nico Dosenbach, allows for high-resolution mapping of individual brains, leading to the discovery of SCAN.
• In Parkinson's disease patients, the SCAN network shows abnormal strengthening of connections with key brain regions like the basal ganglia and thalamus.
• SCAN over-connectivity with basal ganglia represents a potential new biomarker for Parkinson's disease.
• TMS therapy directed at SCAN is a potential future treatment, but further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in routine clinical practice.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Somatic Cognitive Action Network (SCAN): A brain network involved in coordinating movement and integrating information across brain regions.
• Precision Functional Mapping (PFM): A method for high-resolution mapping of individual brains.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): A non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain.
• Basal Ganglia: A group of brain structures involved in motor control, learning, and executive functions.