Fmri study of changes in large-scale brain networks during affective touch

Abstract

The importance of touch in human social development and interpersonal interactions is widely recognized, yet the underlying neurological processes remain relatively unexplored. To better understand these mechanisms, we analyzed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to investigate how affective touch influences brain activity. Our study employed independent component analysis (ICA) and cluster analysis to identify brain components that exhibit significant changes following tactile stimulation. These components were then mapped to large-scale brain networks, focusing on those with the most pronounced spatial intensity differences. Our findings highlight the crucial role of distinct brain networks in processing tactile sensations. Notably, we observed significant changes in the default mode network (DMN) activity, particularly in the control group, after the touch experiment. Additionally, specific alterations were detected in the amygdala, cuneus, and orbitofrontal cortex. This study sheds light on the neurological foundations of tactile experiences and their potential impact on behavior and emotional states. Understanding these processes could inform the development of therapeutic strategies that leverage touch to alleviate stress and enhance mental health.