Fetal cognitive functions and 3D/4D ultrasound

Abstract

In the past decades, advances in modern imaging methods, especially three-dimensional/four-dimensional ultrasound (3D/4D US), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and fetal magnetoencephalography (fMEG), enabled the studies of the important neurodevelopmental events and opened the field of the investigation of fetal cognitive functions. Prenatal structural, functional and behavioral development, including the development of the central nervous system (CNS) and cognitive functional developments, are nowadays accessible to a better assessment due to the implementation of these methods. 3D/4D ultrasound imaging provides much important information about the fetus. It can detect various malformations and clarify suspicious findings, improve diagnostic accuracy, display fascinating fetal activity and also, it supports the advancements in fetal neurobehavioral and cognitive science. In this paper, a brief review of 3D/4D US assessed insights in the field of fetal neurodevelopment, particularly the development of fetal cognitive functions: sensory perception, motor action, emotions, learning, and memory, as well as the role of the fetal stress in cognitive development are discussed. Investigation of fetal cognitive functions is still in its beginning, but it is certain that future advances in the application of new imaging methods, such as different 3D/4D US modes and fMRI, will enable a better understanding of the cognitive abilities and functions of the fetus.