Tract- and gray matter- based spatial statistics show white matter and gray matter microstructural differences in autistic males

• DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1231719
• Publication Date: 2023-09-28T04:27:16Z
• Authors: Marissa DiPiero; Hassan Cordash; Molly B. Prigge; Carolyn K. King; Jubel Morgan; Jose Guerrero-Gon...; Nagesh Adluru; Jace B. King; Nicholas Lange; Erin D. Bigler; Brandon A. Zielinski; Andrew L. Alexander; Janet E. Lainhart; Douglas C. Dean
• Keywords: Gray (unit)

Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition commonly studied in the context of early childhood. As ASD life-long condition, understanding characteristics brain microstructure from adolescence into adulthood and associations to clinical features critical for improving outcomes across lifespan. In current work, we utilized Tract Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) Gray Matter (GBSS) examine white matter (WM) gray (GM) neurotypical (NT) autistic males. Methods Multi-shell diffusion MRI was acquired 78 81 NT males (12-to-46-years) fit DTI NODDI models. TBSS GBSS were performed analyze WM GM microstructure, respectively. General linear models used investigate group age-related differences. Within group, relationships between measures symptoms investigated. Results All dMRI significantly associated with age GM. Significant differences observed No significant age-by-group interactions detected. positive ADOS-2 Calibrated Severity Scores. Conclusion Using our findings provide new insights adulthood. Detection microstructural lifespan as well their relationship level will deepen brain-behavior may aid improvement intervention options adults.