The brain can be considered as one of the most complicated physical systems in the known universe. Researchers can examine it using their own brains and the advanced computational resources at our disposal. The brain uses axons (nerve fibers) to allow neurons (nerve cells) to communicate with the rest of the brain and body. This denotes that it can be considered as the brain as a computer to understand better how it communicates.
A newly published study presents how much the 'wires' linking distinct brain regions—known as structural connectivity'—determine how well those regions work together. The research is highly relevant for the Brain-Computer Interface Market graph as it uses a deep learning computer model to map brain connectivity for the first time in brain research. The team is mapping brain function with cutting-edge computer technologies. The research team thinks that by reducing the number of necessary patient brain scans, the computer model of brain connectivity will save time and money for the health care system and research centers.
A graph neural network deep learning computer model is one that is built to learn and make decisions from data. The problem with studying brain connections and how they affect brain function is that not all regions are directly connected. Brain areas are sometimes just connected by a common area. MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) is the standard test for examining the brain. Large magnets and radio waves are used in MRI equipment to provide a comprehensive image of the brain and spinal cord activity.
According to the findings, indirect connections between brain regions may have a greater impact on overall brain function than previously anticipated. It was also shown that brain regions with a high number of direct connections are capable of eliciting more complicated brain operations.
Previously, anatomical connections in the brain were unable to show a robust relationship with functional connectivity patterns. The present study shows a more robust link than many previous international studies conducted over the years.
Functional connection scans take from 10 minutes to one hour in an MRI machine. This scenario may no longer be necessary with future advances and implementations of this technology. This is because the functional connectivity of the brain might be directly estimated based on the structural connectivity. Another possible use of the research is determining brain functionality in unresponsive patients purely based on the brain's underlying structure.
The researchers want to build on their findings by defining specific structural connectivity patterns that support improved brain function.