title: Development of large-scale functional networks over the lifespan.
abstract: The development of large-scale functional organization of the human brain across the lifespan is not well understood. Here we used magnetoencephalographic recordings of 53 adults (ages 18-89) to characterize functional brain networks in the resting state. Slow frequencies engage larger networks than higher frequencies and show different development over the lifespan. Networks in the delta (2-4 Hz) frequency range decrease, while networks in the beta/gamma frequency range (> 16 Hz) increase in size with advancing age. Results show that the right frontal lobe and the temporal areas in both hemispheres are important relay stations in the expanding high-frequency networks. Neuropsychological tests confirmed the tendency of cognitive decline with older age. The decrease in visual memory and visuoconstructive functions was strongly associated with the age-dependent enhancement of functional connectivity in both temporal lobes. Using functional network analysis this study elucidates important neuronal principles underlying age-related cognitive decline paving mental deterioration in senescence.
authors.affiliation: Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany. Winfried.Schlee@uni-ulm.de
authors.forename: Winfried
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Schlee
authors.forename: Vera
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Leirer
authors.forename: Stephan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kolassa
authors.forename: Franka
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Thurm
authors.forename: Thomas
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Elbert
authors.forename: Iris-Tatjana
authors.initials: IT
authors.lastname: Kolassa
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D001921:Brain / Q000254:growth & development; D001931:Brain Mapping / Q000379:methods; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008136:Longevity; D015225:Magnetoencephalography; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000502:physiology*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D014796:Visual Perception / Q000502:physiology; D055815:Young Adult