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Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Published on: September 12, 2011
Brainstem volumetric alterations in children with autism
R J Jou1, N J Minshew, N M Melhem
1Child Study Center and Investigative Medicine Program, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
Psychological Medicine
|September 25, 2008
Summary
Autism is associated with reduced gray matter volume in the brainstem, particularly in children. This brainstem gray matter volume decrease correlates with sensory sensitivities, suggesting a link between brainstem abnormalities and sensory dysfunction in autism.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Biomedical Imaging
Background:
- Previous studies on brainstem volume in autism have yielded inconsistent results.
- No prior research has specifically analyzed gray and white matter volumes within the brainstem in autistic children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare gray and white matter volumes in the brainstem of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) versus typically developing controls.
- To explore potential correlations between brainstem gray matter volume and sensory processing characteristics in children with autism.
Main Methods:
- Utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to scan 22 boys with autism and 22 age- and gender-matched controls.
- Employed semi-automated segmentation via BRAINS2 software for precise gray and white matter volumetric measurements.
- Assessed oral sensory sensitivity using the Sensory Profile Questionnaire (SPQ).
Main Results:
- No significant differences in age or total brain volume (TBV) were found between groups; however, controls exhibited higher full-scale IQ.
- A statistically significant reduction in brainstem gray matter volume was observed in the autism group, even after controlling for TBV.
- No significant differences in brainstem white matter volume were detected between the groups.
- A notable correlation emerged between reduced brainstem gray matter volume and heightened oral sensory sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- The study findings suggest the presence of brainstem gray matter abnormalities in children with autism.
- These brainstem alterations are linked to sensory deficits, specifically oral sensory sensitivity.
- Results align with prior research, reinforcing the hypothesis that brainstem circuitry disturbances contribute to the sensory dysfunction characteristic of autism.
