Imaging resting state brain function in multiple sclerosis.
In multiple sclerosis (MS), physical and cognitive deficits not only reflect structural damage, but also functional imbalance in and between brain networks. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) allows one to investigate intrinsic, synchronized brain activity across the whole brain, and to measure the degree of functional correlation between different cortical regions. This review describes the major findings obtained in MS patients at different clinical stages using resting state fMRI, and discusses how the use of fMRI techniques may improve our ability to identify novel biomarkers useful in the context of the diagnostic work-up, establishing prognosis and monitoring treatment.
Neuroimaging Research Unit, Institute of Experimental Neurology, Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milan, Italy. m.filippi@hsr.it
Massimo
M
Filippi
Federica
F
Agosta
Edoardo G
EG
Spinelli
Maria Assunta
MA
Rocca
D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology*; D059907:Functional Neuroimaging; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000503:physiopathology*; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000503:physiopathology*