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Abstract #3417

Characterizing Neuronal Morphological Development Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Lindsey A. Leigland1, Sune N. Jespersen2, Erin N. Taber3, Anda Cornea4, Christopher D. Kroenke1,4

1Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA; 2Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark; 3Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA; 4Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA


Abnormal morphological development of the cerebral cortex is associated with several neurodevelopmental disorders. Previously, it has been suggested that neuropil microanatomy determines water diffusion anisotropy observed in developing cerebral cortex. Here, a direct comparison is presented between post mortem diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measurements and distributions of neuronal processes determined using rapid Golgi staining procedures in brains from postnatal day (P)13 to P31 ferrets. The results support a recently proposed theoretical model relating the neurite orientation matrix to the water diffusion tensor, providing a link between DTI measurements and specific anatomical characteristics of the developing cerebral cortex.