Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging

The overall goal of the following experiment is to examine the connections among brain areas that are important for social cognition in autism. Using functional MRI and diffusion tensor imaging of the brain in both children and adults with autism, this is achieved by designing appropriate FMRI experiments, then recruiting autistic participants. The participants must be adequately prepared for the procedure to obtain quality, functional and structural brain images.

The functional experiments are presented to the participant in the MRI scanner while performing a predefined task. The MR Images acquired result in a relatively large amount of data for each experiment. The acquired neuroimaging data are transferred to the lab's computer server, then pre-processed and subjected to statistical analysis by creating models.