Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 28, 2026
12:21
Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Published on: September 12, 2011
26.0K
Reorganization of functionally connected brain subnetworks in high-functioning autism
Enrico Glerean1, Raj K Pan2, Juha Salmi1,3
1Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland.
Human Brain Mapping
|December 22, 2015
Summary
Functional brain network reorganization in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) clarifies connectivity patterns. The ventro-temporal-limbic (VTL) subnetwork
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Developmental Neuroscience
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by varied functional connectivity findings, including both reduced (hypo-) and increased (hyper-) connectivity.
- Understanding the specific brain subnetworks involved in ASD is crucial for clarifying these inconsistencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate abnormalities in functional brain subnetworks in high-functioning individuals with ASD during a social movie viewing task.
- To identify specific subnetworks whose connectivity patterns correlate with autism symptom severity.
Main Methods:
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to record brain activity in individuals with and without ASD while they watched a movie.
- Graph theory and Pearson's correlation were employed to analyze whole-brain functional networks and derive subnetworks.
- Scaled inclusivity was calculated to assess intersubject similarity in subnetwork connectivity, with results validated using the ABIDE dataset.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in the default-mode and ventro-temporal-limbic (VTL) subnetworks were observed between individuals with and without ASD.
- The VTL subnetwork, encompassing regions like the amygdala and thalamus, showed connectivity patterns that correlated with autism symptom severity across participants.
- This correlation between VTL subnetwork similarity and behavioral measures was consistent across ASD and control groups and in a separate dataset.
Conclusions:
- The reorganization of functional subnetworks, particularly the VTL, offers an explanation for the mixed connectivity findings in ASD.
- The functional organization of the VTL subnetwork serves as a potential biomarker for inter-individual differences in behavioral measures related to autism.
- These findings underscore the critical role of ventro-temporal and limbic systems in the neurobiology of autism.
Keywords:
autism spectrum disorderfMRIfunctional connectivitygraph theoryintersubject similaritynetwork modularityMore Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
1.7K
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.
1.7K
01:13Functional Brain Systems: Reticular Formation
6.0K
The reticular formation is a complex network of gray and white matter located within the brainstem extending from the medulla to the midbrain.
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
6.0K
01:30Organization of the Brain
3.6K
The brain is an integral component of the nervous system and serves as the center for processing sensory inputs, making decisions, and directing bodily actions. This complex organ is organized into three primary sections: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, each responsible for a range of vital functions.
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
3.6K