Investigating Task-Free Functional Connectivity Patterns in Newborns Using functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Abstract
Robust functional connectivity in sensorimotor resting-state network (RSN) has been linked to positive neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonates. In the current study, we aimed to map the developmental trajectory of sensorimotor RSN in awake neonates using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). We acquired fNIRS resting-state data from 41 healthy newborns (17 females, gestational age range=36+0 to 42+1 weeks) within the first 48 hours after birth. At the group level, we observed robust positive connectivity in numerous channel-pairs across the sensorimotor network, especially in the left hemisphere. Next, we examined the relationship between functional connectivity, gestational age and postnatal age, while controlling for sex and subject effects. We found both gestational and postnatal age to be positively associated with an increase in functional connectivity in the posterior portion of sensorimotor RSN. In summary, our findings demonstrate the feasibility of fNIRS for monitoring early developmental changes in functional networks in awake infants.