Altered network pattern of cortical microarchitecture in major depressive disorder

Although major depressive disorder (MDD) has been deeply studied in decades, there are still no reliable biological markers. Here, we combine the T1-wighted, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and inhomogeneous magnetization transfer imaging (IhMT) to detect cortical morphometric changes in individuals with MDD. Morphometric similarity network (MSN) was established for each subject. Network properties and rich-club organizations were assessed and analyzed between groups. MDD showed significant alteration in global and nodal properties, as well as reorganization of rich clubs. Consequently, topological structure of the morphometric similarity network is disrupted, which may be a potential biomarker for major depressive disorder.