Dorsal Attention Network as a Convergent Hub of Diverse Non-pharmacological Interventions Preserving Functional Gradients and Cognition in Aging

Jin, X.; Tang, W.; Zheng, Z.; Wang, P.; Zhu, X.; Cui, X.; Yin, S.; Lv, Z.; Xie, H.; Li, R.; Li, J.

doi:10.1101/2025.07.26.666919

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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2025.07.26.666919

Dorsal Attention Network as a Convergent Hub of Diverse Non-pharmacological Interventions Preserving Functional Gradients and Cognition in Aging

Jin, X.·Tang, W.·Zheng, Z.·Wang, P.·Zhu, X.·Cui, X.·Yin, S.·Lv, Z.·Xie, H.·Li, R.·Li, J.

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Abstract

Non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) in aging neuroscience have largely focused on intervention-specific regional effects, with limited understanding of generalizable network-level mechanisms. Here, adopting a previously unexplored gradient-based perspective of functional brain organization, we analyzed an NPI dataset involving four interventions in older adults (training/control group: n = 112/59). NPIs led to strengthened intra-network functional integration and maintained macroscale gradient architecture. Virtual lesion analyses identified the dorsal attention network (DAN) as a key contributor to gradient maintenance. Critically, enhanced post-intervention DAN connectivity was associated with maintained gradient structure and improved global cognition. These findings establish a unifying framework in which the DAN acts as a convergent hub through which diverse NPIs preserve functional brain organization and attenuate cognitive aging.

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Jin, X., Tang, W., Zheng, Z., Wang, P., Zhu, X., Cui, X., Yin, S., Lv, Z., Xie, H., Li, R., Li, J.. 2025-07-31. Dorsal Attention Network as a Convergent Hub of Diverse Non-pharmacological Interventions Preserving Functional Gradients and Cognition in Aging. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.07.26.666919

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