Subcortical resting state functional connectivity as a neural marker of first onset internalizing disorder in high-risk youth

Abstract

Background

Research has linked individual differences in resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) of subcortical brain regions to internalizing disorders, but little research has examined if these changes are pre-morbid risk factors. This study examined individual differences in subcortical RSFC as risk factors for the first lifetime onset of an internalizing disorder in youth at familial risk.

Methods

Participants (n = 93) were adolescents with a parental history of internalizing disorders, but with no such history themselves. Youth completed resting state fMRI scans, as well as the MINI-Kid and the Youth Self Report internalizing symptoms scale at baseline. The MINI-Kid was completed again at 9 or 18-month follow-up to assess onset of internalizing disorders. Seed-to-whole brain analyses consisted of a multiple regression models controlling for sex, age, in scanner motion, and baseline symptoms.

Results

First onsets at follow-up were associated with increased baseline RSFC between the left caudate and the bilateral SMA (pFDR = .002), and between the right nucleus accumbens and the right superior parietal lobule (pFDR = .0003).

Conclusion

Altered RSFC of subcortical regions may represent a pre-morbid risk factor for developing a first onset of an internalizing disorder. Results may have implications for understanding the neural bases of internalizing disorders and for early identification and prevention efforts.