[Voxel-Based Morphometry and Cognitive Function].

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neuroanatomy

Background:

• Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) is a neuroimaging technique used to study brain structure.
• Investigating the relationship between regional gray and white matter volume and cognitive function is a key area of research.
• Previous VBM studies have reported associations, but their specificity and robustness are debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the methods, results, and limitations of VBM studies examining brain structure-cognition relationships.
• To highlight challenges in identifying specific neural correlates of cognitive functions using VBM.
• To present findings from large-scale VBM studies with robust statistical approaches.

Main Methods:

• Review of methodologies employed in VBM research on cognitive function.
• Analysis of results from numerous VBM studies with large sample sizes and rigorous statistical analyses.
• Examination of reporting practices and potential issues in VBM study publications.

Main Results:

• VBM studies often reveal weak and widespread associations between regional brain volumes and cognitive performance.
• Despite large sample sizes and robust statistics, specific neural bases for individual cognitive functions remain elusive.
• Inconsistencies and limitations in reporting hinder clear interpretation of VBM findings.

Conclusions:

• The widespread and weak nature of observed associations suggests VBM may not be optimal for pinpointing discrete neural substrates of specific cognitive functions.
• Further methodological advancements or alternative approaches may be needed to reliably identify the neural underpinnings of cognition.
• Caution is advised when interpreting VBM results, particularly regarding claims of specific structure-function relationships.