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Surface-based morphometry reveals distinct cortical thickness and surface area profiles in Williams syndrome
Tamar Green1,2, Kyle C Fierro1, Mira M Raman1
1Center for Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences Research, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.
Summary
Williams syndrome (WS) is linked to reduced brain volume, primarily driven by decreased cortical surface area, not thickness. Some brain regions show delayed development in adults with WS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Williams syndrome (WS) is characterized by reduced gray matter volume.
- Cortical thickness (CT) and surface area (SA) are key components of gray matter volume.
- The distinct contributions of CT and SA to WS brain morphology are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if the chromosome 7 microdeletion in WS uniquely impacts CT and SA.
- To investigate age-related changes in CT and SA in individuals with WS.
Main Methods:
- Compared CT and SA in 44 individuals with WS and 49 controls.
- Analyzed data across two age groups: young (6.6-18.9 years) and adult (20.2-51.5 years).
Main Results:
- WS showed increased CT but decreased SA compared to controls.
- SA differences were widespread, while CT differences were scattered.
- Adults with WS exhibited increased CT in specific brain regions, unlike younger individuals.
Conclusions:
- Early reductions in SA appear to be the primary cause of reduced brain volume in WS.
- Observed age-related CT changes may indicate delayed or arrested brain development in WS.
