Resting-State Dynamic Functional Gradient Stability Disturbance by Task fMRI in Lifelong Premature Ejaculation

Abstract

Motivation: Premature ejaculation (PE) is a major component of male sexual disfunction. The brain's recovery process following erotic stimulation in PE patients remains unclear. Goal(s): In this study, we aimed to explore the brain network hierarchies by brain gradient and the dynamic gradient stability modified by erotic stimulation. Approach: We explored the brain network hierarchies by brain gradient in PE and NC group across pre- and post-task resting-state and brain dynamic BOLD phase-locking functional gradient stability. Results: The PE patients have decreased dynamic functional gradient stability of visual network and increased stability of the default mode network. Impact: The dynamic functional gradient stability of visual network and the default mode network were altered in lifelong PE compared to normal controls. These findings revealed that brain spontaneous activity in PE patients can hardly recovery as soon as normal control.