Dynamic synergetic configurations of resting-state networks in ADHD.

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by high distractibility and impaired executive functions. Notably, there is mounting evidence suggesting that ADHD could be regarded as a default mode network (DMN) disorder. In particular, failure in regulating the dynamics of activity and interactions of the DMN and cognitive control networks have been hypothesized as the main source of task interference causing attentional problems. On the other hand, previous studies indicated pronounced fluctuations in the strength of functional connections over time, particularly for the inter-network connections between the DMN and fronto-parietal control networks. Hence, characterization of connectivity disturbances in ADHD disorder requires a thorough assessment of time-varying FCs. In this study, we propose a dynamical systems perspective to assess how the DMN over time recruits different configurations of network segregation and integration. Specifically, we were interested in configurations for which both intra- and inter-network connections are retained, as opposed to commonly used methods which assess network segregation as a single measure. From resting-state fMRI data, we extracted three different stable configurations of FC patterns for the DMN, namely synergies. We provide evidence supporting our hypothesis that the ADHD brain differs in both recruitment rate and the topology of specific synergies between resting-state networks.