Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026
09:33
Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Analysis of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Published on: July 28, 2013
Obesity is associated with white matter atrophy: a combined diffusion tensor imaging and voxel-based morphometric
Henry K Karlsson1, Jetro J Tuulari, Jussi Hirvonen
1Turku PET Centre, Turku, Finland.
Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.)
|March 21, 2013
Summary
Obesity is linked to reduced brain matter integrity, affecting areas that control appetite and reward seeking. These brain changes may be driven by metabolic factors, potentially worsening eating behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Obesity research
- Brain structure
Background:
- The relationship between obesity and brain structure is not well understood.
- Obesity may influence the integrity of gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) in the brain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate obesity-related changes in brain white and gray matter integrity.
- To examine the association between body fat percentage and brain structure.
Main Methods:
- Voxel-based analysis of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and T1-weighted MRI.
- Studied 23 morbidly obese subjects and 22 nonobese volunteers.
- Compared fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), and GM/WM density between groups.
Main Results:
- Obese subjects exhibited lower FA and MD values, and reduced focal and global GM and WM volumes.
- Structural changes were identified in brain regions associated with reward seeking, inhibitory control, and appetite.
- FA, MD, and GM/WM density were negatively correlated with body fat percentage.
Conclusions:
- Obesity-associated changes in GM and WM may stem from metabolic factors.
- Brain atrophy in reward and appetite control regions could exacerbate abnormal eating behaviors.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...
01:27Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...
01:21Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, or CMRI, is a non-invasive diagnostic test that employs a magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to create precise images of the heart and arteries. It provides comprehensive information about cardiac anatomy, function, perfusion, and tissue characterization without ionizing radiation.IndicationsCMRI diagnoses various heart conditions, including tissue damage from heart attacks, ischemic heart disease, myocarditis, aortic issues (tears, aneurysms,...