Microstructural geometric alterations in autism: relation with brain network and adaptive function

Motivation: It remains unclear whether microstructural geometric alterations exist in the white matter of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Goal(s): This study investigates microstructural geometric changes in children with ASD, their links to brain network and cognitive function. Approach: A new mathematical framework, known as Director Field Analysis (DFA), was utilized to examine the orientation characteristics of white matter fibers. Results: Children with ASD exhibited significantly reduced DFA metrics, which were associated with an increased average clustering coefficient and impaired adaptive function. Impact: White matter microstructural geometry may provide new insights into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying ASD in children, and serve as biomarkers for the prediction of ASD and adaptive function.