Spatiotemporal network alterations in experimental focal cortical epilepsy: MRI-based longitudinal functional connectivity and weighted graph analysis

There is increasing evidence that the topology of brain networks may be changed in epilepsy. In particular, a random topology has been suggested as an explanation for lower seizure thresholds. To test this hypothesis, we assessed focal epileptic and healthy networks over time using resting state functional MRI and weighted graph theoretical analysis in a rat model. Brain networks in focal epilepsy were globally affected, toward a more ordered network topology. Networks largely normalized at ten weeks after epilepsy induction. Graph analysis provides a promising method to explore dynamical network alterations in epilepsy.