Objective: To compare the functional connectivity of PFC, PMC, and PSC regions during walking between individuals with Parkinson’s disease and healthy controls.

Background: Gait disturbances significantly impact the mobility and quality of life of individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). This study aims to delve into the cortical mechanisms underlying gait disorders in Parkinson’s disease, specifically focusing on the prefrontal cortex (PFC), premotor cortex (PMC), and primary somatosensory cortex (PSC).

Method: The study included 30 individuals with PD (mean age 62.40 ± 7.16 years) and 22 healthy older adults (mean age 60.95 ± 6.34 years). All participants performed a walking task, and a mobile functional near-infrared spectroscopy system was employed to evaluate cortical activation and assess functional connectivity within and between the PFC, PMC, and PSC.

Results: The findings indicate that individuals with PD in the off-state exhibit decreased walking speed and shorter stride length. No discernible differences were found in functional connectivity in the bilateral PFC, PMC, and PSC during walking when compared to the control group. However, a significant increase in functional connectivity was observed between various cortical brain regions, particularly the PFC, PMC, and PSC. The results suggested a positive correlation among the functional connectivity coupling strength of the right-side PMC(RPMC),  RPMC-right-side PSC(RPSC),  gait speed, and stride length in individuals with PD.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that individuals with PD exhibit notable gait disturbances during the off-state, which are associated with changes in functional connectivity within specific cortical brain regions, notably the premotor cortex and the primary somatosensory cortex.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/decrease-in-walking-ability-with-increased-functional-connectivity-between-multiple-brain-areas-in-parkinsons-disease/