Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
Co-analysis of Brain Structure and Function using fMRI and Diffusion-weighted Imaging
Published on: November 8, 2012
White matter integrity, fiber count, and other fallacies: the do's and don'ts of diffusion MRI
Derek K Jones1, Thomas R Knösche, Robert Turner
1Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC), School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3AT, UK. jonesd27@Cardiff.ac.uk
Abstract:
Diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) has been increasingly used in imaging neuroscience over the last decade. An early form of this technique, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was rapidly implemented by major MRI scanner companies as a scanner selling point. Due to the ease of use of such implementations, and the plausibility of some of their results, DTI was leapt on by imaging neuroscientists who saw it as a powerful and unique new tool for exploring the structural connectivity of human brain. However, DTI is a rather approximate technique, and its results have frequently been given implausible interpretations that have escaped proper critique and have appeared misleadingly in journals of high reputation. In order to encourage the use of improved DW-MRI methods, which have a better chance of characterizing the actual fiber structure of white matter, and to warn against the misuse and misinterpretation of DTI, we review the physics of DW-MRI, indicate currently preferred methodology, and explain the limits of interpretation of its results. We conclude with a list of 'Do's and Don'ts' which define good practice in this expanding area of imaging neuroscience.
Insights
Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) offers insights into brain structure but is approximate. Improved Diffusion-Weighted MRI (DW-MRI) methods provide more accurate white matter characterization, guiding better neuroscience research practices.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medical Imaging
- Physics
Background:
- Diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) is widely used in imaging neuroscience.
- Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), an early DW-MRI technique, was quickly adopted by industry and researchers.
- DTI's ease of use and plausible results led to its widespread application for exploring human brain structural connectivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To encourage the adoption of advanced DW-MRI techniques for more accurate white matter fiber structure characterization.
- To caution against the misuse and misinterpretation of DTI in neuroscience research.
- To provide a comprehensive review of DW-MRI physics, preferred methodologies, and interpretation limitations.
Main Methods:
- Review of the fundamental physics underlying Diffusion-Weighted MRI.
- Indication of currently preferred methodologies for advanced DW-MRI acquisition and analysis.
- Explanation of the inherent limitations in interpreting DTI results.
Main Results:
- DTI is an approximate technique with a history of implausible interpretations in high-impact journals.
- Improved DW-MRI methods offer a greater potential for accurately characterizing white matter fiber architecture.
- Misinterpretations of DTI have often gone uncritiqued, leading to misleading scientific conclusions.
Conclusions:
- Adoption of advanced DW-MRI methods is crucial for robust imaging neuroscience.
- Researchers must be aware of DTI's limitations to avoid misinterpretation of structural connectivity data.
- A set of 'Do's and Don'ts' is provided to promote best practices in DW-MRI research.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
01:17Assessment of Diffusion and Perfusion
The Role of Diffusion in Respiration
Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. In the respiratory system, this principle...