Effects of computerized cognitive training on functional activity and connectivity in Huntington's disease: A pilot study

Background Computerized cognitive training (CCT) has been found to improve cognition by altering functional activity and functional connectivity of brain networks in people with and without cognitive impairment. The effects of CCT on functional brain networks in Huntington's disease (HD) have not been comprehensively examined. Objective In our pilot trial of CCT, we aimed to explore effects of CCT on functional activity and connectivity of fronto-striatal regions during processing speed and cognitive flexibility tasks, and functional connectivity of resting-state networks in HD. Methods Sixteen participants in pre-manifest and early stages of HD were randomised to either a 12-week multi-domain CCT intervention ( n = 6) or lifestyle education ( n = 10). Participants completed a 1-h magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan at baseline and follow-up, which included task-based and resting-state functional MRI. Analyses examined changes in functional activity and connectivity of fronto-striatal regions during processing speed and cognitive flexibility task performance, as well as functional connectivity within default mode and frontoparietal resting-state networks. Results While there was evidence of benefits to in-scanner task performance, there were no significant effects on functional activity or functional connectivity of fronto-striatal regions during task performance, or resting-state functional connectivity. Conclusion CCT did not generate significant effects on functional activity or connectivity of fronto-striatal networks associated with processing speed or cognitive flexibility, or resting-state networks in HD. A larger study is required to further examine the effects of CCT on functional brain outcomes and potential moderating factors.