Subjective cognitive decline is associated with altered patterns of brain activity and connectivity during performance of an old/new recognition memory task.

Introduction: Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD) is considered a preclinical stage within the AD continuum. Knowledge about the functional changes in the brain associated with episodic memory retrieval and novelty recognition in people with SCD is currently very limited.

Method: The study aimed to evaluate behavioural and neurofunctional changes in individuals with SCD, measured relative to a control group, during successful episodic memory retrieval and novelty recognition, as well as to compare the functional connectivity patterns related to these cognitive processes within the Default Mode Network (DMN) in both groups. Participants performed an old/new recognition memory task with words while the BOLD signal was acquired.

Results: No between-group differences were observed in the performance of the episodic memory task. However, during the successful recognition of old words, the SCD group showed brain hypoactivity in the right rolandic operculum and reduced functional connectivity between the DMN and the fronto-parietal control network (FPCN). During the correct identification of new words, the SCD group also showed reduced connectivity between the DMN and the FPCN, and lower connectivity within the DMN.

Conclusion: Despite the absence of objective evidence of cognitive impairment, people with SCD display several changes in brain activity and connectivity associated with episodic memory retrieval and novelty recognition.