Earlier studies using fMRI have shown the existence of a modular structure for different brain networks. However, no information exist about hierarchical modular structure of functional connectivity networks in patients with Parkinson’s disease(PD). Using percolation analysis, we found a shift in the hierarchical modular structure of functional connectivity networks in patients with PD. A shift in the modules in caudal-rostral direction in the PD group of motorically affected patients, alongside rearrangement of connector hubs and provincial hubs in PD patients was observed. Potential application of network properties observed here, as predictors of subsequent disease progression is currently being investigated.
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