Infant Communication Outcomes Relate to Language Network Connectivity in Utero
Abstract
Evidence suggests the language network begins to develop in utero, but whether the status of the language network can predict short-term language outcomes is unknown. This study utilized resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) to explore the functional connectivity of the language network in utero and its relation to developmental outcomes. 28 pregnant women were scanned during the third trimester and then completed the Ages and Stages Questionnaire when infants were 1-3 months old. Infants were divided into high communication (HC) and low communication (LC) groups based on the communication subscale. Rs-fMRI data was used to evaluate functional connectivity between Heschl’s gyrus (HG) and the frontal and temporal lobes. Left HG showed strong significant functional connectivity with regions of the frontal lobe in the HC group whereas, LC infants showed no significant functional connectivity between these regions. The enhanced functional connectivity observed in HC infants suggests a more efficient and widespread language network, emphasizing the importance of early life development in shaping subsequent communication abilities.