Sex Differences in Alterations of Brain Functional Network in Tobacco Use Disorder.

This article focuses on sex-specific differences in the topological properties of brain functional networks in adults with tobacco use disorder (TUD). Using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) and graph theoretical analysis, the study found that men with TUD—but not women—exhibited significantly lower global and nodal global efficiency, as well as reduced intermodular connections between visual, executive control, and subcortical brain modules, compared to non-TUD participants. These findings suggest distinct neural network alterations in men and women with TUD, which may underlie sex differences in tobacco addiction and have implications for developing sex-specific prevention and treatment strategies. The study acknowledges limitations including unmatched demographic variables and lack of hormonal data, highlighting the need for further research.