Brain dynamics reflecting an intra-network brain state are associated with increased post-traumatic stress symptoms in the early aftermath of trauma

Dynamic brain connectivity and PTSD risk: a neural signature of vulnerability?A study published in Nature Mental Health investigated dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) in 275 individuals two weeks after trauma exposure. fMRI data revealed two distinct brain states: an intra-network state, with connectivity focused within the same neural networks, and an inter-network state, characterized by broader communication between different networks. Spending more time in the intra-network state was linked to higher symptom severity over time, while the inter-network state showed a protective effect, especially in females. These findings suggest that dFNC may serve as an early biomarker of vulnerability to PTSD, paving the way for targeted and personalized interventions based on brain network dynamics.  

DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4004473/v1