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Open Access 01-01-2019 | Original Communication

Structural network topology relates to tissue properties in multiple sclerosis

Authors: Svenja Kiljan, Kim A. Meijer, Martijn D. Steenwijk, Petra J. W. Pouwels, Menno M. Schoonheim, Geert J. Schenk, Jeroen J. G. Geurts, Linda Douw

Published in: Journal of Neurology | Issue 1/2019

Abstract

Objective

Abnormalities in segregative and integrative properties of brain networks have been observed in multiple sclerosis (MS) and are related to clinical functioning. This study aims to investigate the micro-scale correlates of macro-scale network measures of segregation and integration in MS.

Methods

Eight MS patients underwent post-mortem in situ whole-brain diffusion tensor (DT) imaging and subsequent brain dissection. Macro-scale structural network topology was derived from DT data using graph theory. Clustering coefficient and mean white matter (WM) fiber length were measures of nodal segregation and integration. Thirty-three tissue blocks were collected from five cortical brain regions. Using immunohistochemistry micro-scale tissue properties were evaluated, including, neuronal size, neuronal density, axonal density and total cell density. Nodal network properties and tissue properties were correlated.

Results

A negative correlation between clustering coefficient and WM fiber length was found. Higher clustering coefficient was associated with smaller neuronal size and lower axonal density, and vice versa for fiber length. Higher whole-brain WM lesion load was associated with higher whole-brain clustering, shorter whole-brain fiber length, lower neuronal size and axonal density.

Conclusion

Structural network properties on MRI associate with neuronal size and axonal density, suggesting that macro-scale network measures may grasp cortical neuroaxonal degeneration in MS.

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Title: Structural network topology relates to tissue properties in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Svenja Kiljan
Kim A. Meijer
Martijn D. Steenwijk
Petra J. W. Pouwels
Menno M. Schoonheim
Geert J. Schenk
Jeroen J. G. Geurts
Linda Douw
Publication date: 01-01-2019
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Journal of Neurology / Issue 1/2019
Print ISSN: 0340-5354
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1459
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-018-9130-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Structural network topology relates to tissue properties in multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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