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Co-analysis of Brain Structure and Function using fMRI and Diffusion-weighted Imaging

Co-analysis of Brain Structure and Function using fMRI and Diffusion-weighted Imaging

Published on: November 8, 2012

Experience-dependent plasticity in white matter microstructure: reasoning training alters structural connectivity.

Allyson P Mackey¹, Kirstie J Whitaker, Silvia A Bunge

¹Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California at Berkeley Berkeley, CA, USA.

Frontiers in Neuroanatomy

|September 1, 2012

Summary

Reasoning training changed white matter microstructure in adults. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) showed reduced radial diffusivity (RD) and mean diffusivity (MD) after training, suggesting experience-dependent brain plasticity.

Keywords:

cognitive training diffusion-weighted imaging fluid reasoning plasticity test preparation

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cognitive Science

Background:

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) reveals white matter plasticity.
Previous studies show DTI changes after various training programs.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate if reasoning training alters white matter microstructure.
To examine changes in DTI measures following preparation for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).

Main Methods:

Recruited participants undergoing LSAT preparation and age/IQ-matched controls.
Collected DTI data at baseline and after three months.
Analyzed changes in fractional anisotropy (FA), radial diffusivity (RD), and mean diffusivity (MD).

Main Results:

Trained participants showed decreased RD in frontal white matter and decreased MD in frontal and parietal white matter.
No significant changes were observed in the control group.
Greater LSAT score increases correlated with larger MD decreases in the right internal capsule.

Conclusions:

Three months of reasoning training significantly altered white matter microstructure in young adults.
These experience-dependent changes may involve more than just myelination.
DTI can detect structural brain changes related to cognitive training.