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White matter microstructure in children with autistic traits.
Laura M E Blanken1, Ryan L Muetzel1, Vincent W V Jaddoe2
1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC - Sophia, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC - Sophia, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Psychiatry Research. Neuroimaging
|April 7, 2017
Summary
This study found localized differences in brain white matter microstructure associated with autistic traits in children. These findings suggest a neurobiological continuum underlying autistic symptoms across the general population.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Radiology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is linked to aberrant brain connectivity.
- Previous research noted white matter differences in children with ASD.
- The relationship between autistic traits and white matter in the general population remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between autistic traits and white matter microstructure in a population-based sample of children.
- To explore if white matter differences exist on a continuum of autistic traits, not just in diagnosed ASD.
Main Methods:
- Utilized probabilistic tractography and Tract-Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) on a sample of 604 children aged 6-10.
- Assessed continuous measures of autistic traits.
- Examined white matter microstructure, including fractional anisotropy (FA) and axial diffusion.
Main Results:
- Identified a negative association between autistic traits and FA in the left superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF) using TBSS.
- Detected clusters of lower axial diffusion in the corpus callosum and corticospinal tract.
- Observed similar, trend-level white matter differences in children with ASD compared to controls, with some findings persisting after excluding diagnosed ASD cases.
Conclusions:
- Localized associations exist between autistic traits measured continuously and white matter microstructure.
- Findings suggest a potential neurobiological continuum of brain development related to autistic symptoms.
- This research extends understanding beyond diagnosed ASD to the broader spectrum of autistic traits.