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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Published on: September 12, 2011
Altered white matter integrity in adults with autism spectrum disorder and an IQ >100: a diffusion tensor imaging
K Nickel1, L Tebartz van Elst1, E Perlov1,2
1Section for Experimental Neuropsychiatry, Department for Psychiatry & Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
Objective:
White matter (WM) alterations have been reported in children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In particular, impaired connectivity of limbic structures may be related to social deficits. Heterogeneous findings could be explained in terms of differences in sample characteristics and methodology. In this context, non-syndromic forms might differ substantially in WM structure from secondary ASD forms.
Method:
In an attempt to recruit a homogeneous study sample, we included adults with high-functioning ASD and an IQ > 100 to decrease the influence of syndromic forms being often associated with cognitive deficits. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was performed in 30 participants with ASD and 30 pairwise-matched controls. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) as surrogate imaging markers for WM integrity were calculated.
Results:
We found a significant FA decrease in the ASD group in the genu and body of the corpus callosum (CC). Increased MD was detected in the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sACC).
Conclusion:
The finding of decreased WM integrity in the genu of the CC is in line with earlier studies reporting a decreased number of interhemispheric fibers in the frontal lobe of ASD. Alterations in the sACC might be associated with 'Theory of mind' deficits.
