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Updated: May 24, 2026
12:21
Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Published on: September 12, 2011
[Autism and neural connectivity]
Montserrat Palau-Baduell1, Berta Salvadó-Salvadó, Mariona Clofent-Torrentó
1Centro de Orientacion y Asistencia al Desarrollo Infantil (COADI), Barcelona, Spain. mpalaubaduell@gmail.com
Revista De Neurologia
|March 1, 2012
Summary
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is linked to altered brain connectivity, showing both under-connectivity in long-range connections and over-connectivity in local connections. These neural communication changes may explain cognitive and behavioral differences in ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Autism Research
Context:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
- Growing evidence suggests altered brain connectivity in individuals with ASD.
- Neuroimaging and neurophysiological studies are key to understanding these alterations.
Purpose:
- To review recent neuroimaging and neurophysiological studies on brain connectivity in ASD.
- To summarize advances in research linking disordered connectivity to ASD.
- To consolidate findings on functional and structural brain alterations.
Summary:
- Functional neuroimaging indicates under-connectivity in long-range connections (especially fronto-posterior) and over-connectivity in local connections in ASD.
- Structural neuroimaging reveals disruptions in inter-hemispheric white matter, though findings are inconsistent.
- Both functional and structural abnormalities suggest altered neural communication underlies ASD-related deficits.
Impact:
- Highlights the role of neural communication deficits in ASD's cognitive and behavioral symptoms.
- Provides a consolidated overview of connectivity research in autism.
- Informs future research directions for understanding and potentially treating ASD.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
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