Social Isolation Damages Brain Networks, Disrupting Cognitive Growth, New Research Shows (Image supported by ChatGPT)
SEOUL, Aug. 12 (Korea Bizwire) — A new study has found that social isolation damages the brain’s sensory processing networks, hindering cognitive development.
Researchers from Samsung Medical Center, including Professor Lee Jeong-hee of the Department of Radiology and Professor Jeong Seong-kwon from the Department of Physiology, in collaboration with Dr. Lee Tae-kwan from the Korea Brain Research Institute, analyzed the effects of different environments on brain function using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
The study involved dividing male mice into two groups, subjecting one to an enriched environment with sensory stimuli and social interaction, and the other to a socially isolated environment with no external stimuli, from four to 11 weeks of age.
The researchers then stimulated various sensory organs such as the forepaws, whiskers, vision, and olfaction and used fMRI to observe the effects on brain activity.
The results showed that mice raised in enriched environments exhibited enhanced sensory processing, particularly in advanced visual and tactile abilities. These mice also showed improved sensorimotor integration, which is essential for proper motor response.
In contrast, mice raised in socially isolated environments displayed reduced functional connectivity in the brain, particularly in the olfactory region, which led to a diminished ability to recognize smells.
The research highlights the significant impact of early life experiences, particularly during adolescence, on the development of integrated sensory functions and neural networks.
The findings suggest that while sensory stimulation and social interactions improve brain function, social isolation can damage the brain’s sensory processing networks.
Dr. Lee Tae-kwan from the Korea Brain Research Institute noted, “Sensory stimulation and social interaction are not optional but essential for brain development.”
Professor Lee Jeong-hee added, “This is the first study to analyze the brain’s sensory integration response to multisensory stimuli using fMRI, highlighting the risks of social isolation during adolescence and providing insights for future mental health prevention and treatment strategies.”
The study was published in the recent issue of Nature Communications.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
