Functional Connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Summary
Functional connectivity refers to the coordinated activity between separate brain regions and is thought to underpin complex cognitive and social functions. In autism spectrum disorders (ASD), a wealth of neuroimaging studies has identified atypical patterns of both increased and decreased connectivity across large-scale networks. These include altered integration between cortical hubs and subcortical structures, atypical synchronisation of resting-state networks, and imbalances between long-range and local connections. Developmental factors further modulate these patterns, with some evidence for early hyperconnectivity in childhood evolving towards reduced connectivity in adolescence and adulthood. The heterogeneity of ASD necessitates careful subtyping, as distinct connectivity profiles may underlie differences in social communication, sensory processing and response to interventions. Advances in mapping individual connectomes promise more personalised diagnostics and targeted therapies by linking specific network alterations to clinical features.
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Functional Connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorders publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in functional connectivity in autism spectrum disorders across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Functional connectivity: Synchrony of neural activity between distinct brain regions, typically assessed through statistical correlations in imaging data.
Resting-state fMRI: An imaging method that measures spontaneous brain activity when subjects are not engaged in a specific task, used to infer intrinsic network organisation.
Hyperconnectivity: An increase in the strength or density of functional links between brain regions beyond typical levels.
Hypoconnectivity: A decrease in the strength or density of functional links between brain regions, indicating reduced network integration.
Parcellation: The segmentation of the brain into discrete regions or networks based on patterns of connectivity or functional similarity.
References
- A functional parcellation of the whole brain in high-functioning individuals with autism spectrum disorder reveals atypical patterns of network organization. Molecular Psychiatry (2024).
- The Neurogenetics of Functional Connectivity Alterations in Autism: Insights From Subtyping in 657 Individuals. Biological Psychiatry (2023).
- Personalized functional network mapping for autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Translational Psychiatry (2024).
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