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Scanning Dos and Don'ts: Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Awake Children Aged 3 to 5 Years to Assess Brain Structure and Function
Published on: March 10, 2026
Lessons about neurodevelopment from anatomical magnetic resonance imaging
Timothy J Silk1, Amanda G Wood
1Developmental and Functional Brain Imaging, Critical Care and Neurosciences, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics : JDBP
|January 5, 2011
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals brain development patterns, showing gray matter peaks in childhood and white matter growth through adolescence. This aids understanding of typical and atypical neurodevelopmental trajectories.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Radiology
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has revolutionized the study of neurodevelopment.
- Understanding normal and abnormal brain development is crucial for clinical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of anatomical MRI findings in normal brain development.
- To highlight key considerations and challenges in pediatric neuroimaging.
Main Methods:
- Review of volumetric MRI studies.
- Application of advanced analysis techniques like voxel-based morphometry and cortical thickness measures.
Main Results:
- Gray matter volume increases and peaks in late childhood, followed by gradual decline.
- White matter volume shows rapid increase until age 10, continuing development into adolescence.
Conclusions:
- Anatomical MRI provides critical insights into brain maturation.
- Advanced computational analysis of structural MRI holds promise for understanding skill acquisition in development.
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