Maturation of long- and short-range tracts in macaque brain with ultra-high-resolution diffusion MRI

Motivation: Despite paramount neuroscientific significance of macaque brain model, comprehensive delineation of both long- and short-range tracs of developing macaque brain is not available. Goal(s): To reveal long- and short-range white matter (WM) tract maturation with cutting-edge tractography using first-of-their-kinds ultra-high-resolution diffusion MRI (dMRI) datasets of developing macaque brains. Approach: We acquired ultra-high resolution dMRI of neonate, early childhood, and adult macaque brains and traced deep and superficial white matter tracts through advanced dMRI-based tractography. Results: Comprehensive long- and short-range WM tracts were delineated, characterized by differential microstructural changes across all tracts. Impact: The revealed maturational processes of the developmental macaque brain WM tracts, specifically the short-range WM tracts, offer unprecedented insights into common and unique features of brain development across primate species.