Divergent aperiodic slope and alpha dynamics expose cortical excitability gradients in fragile X syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is characterized by cortical hyperexcitability, a core neurophysiological feature that contributes to sensory hypersensitivity, cognitive dysfunction, and other disabling symptoms. This disruption in excitatory-inhibitory balance is a key pharmacological target, yet reliable biomarkers to quantify it noninvasively remain limited. Spectral slope, derived from the aperiodic component of the EEG power spectrum, has emerged as a potential index of cortical excitability. Here, we evaluated spectral slope and theta-alpha peak frequency in individuals with FXS to assess their utility as candidate neurophysiological biomarkers.

Methods

Five minutes of resting state EEG data were collected from 70 subjects with FXS (mean age 20.5 ± 10 years; 32 fem

SUBMITTER: Elmaghraby R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12486676 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature