Publication date: Mar 26, 2025

Now, in a study published in NeuroImage, researchers from Japan have investigated the link between white matter fiber tracts and brain functional connectivity in young children with ASD. Despite ongoing research, the structural and functional brain differences between children with ASD and typically developing (TD) children remain poorly understood. Notably, the researchers identified specific white matter tracts linked to core ASD symptoms, providing new insights into how these structural differences relate to behavior. “We observed that superior longitudinal fasciculus was associated with repetitive behaviors, whereas cingulum connectivity correlated more with communication abilities,” explains Prof. Tomoda. “These findings highlight the potential of multi-modal imaging in identifying ASD-related brain changes, helping to refine diagnostic criteria and guide the development of targeted interventions. ” Future work in this field could open new pathways for improving diagnostic accuracy, tailoring interventions, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families. The findings revealed significant differences in brain connectivity between the two groups, particularly in the left hemisphere.

Semantics

Original Article