Abstract #1081

Hua K, Zhang J, Wakana S, Jiang H, van Zijl P, Mori S, Hao H

Three-dimensional tractography based on DTI can identify connected cortical regions. However, tractography is known to have errors and unknown validity. In this study, we tackled these issues by creating population-averaged connectivity maps. The probabilistic maps were created for 7 major tracts using data from 28 normal subjects. Almost entire cortical regions were connected by 4 major association fibers. High degree of symmetry was observed, but three well-clustered regions are apparent for the superior longitudinal fasciculus only in the dominant hemisphere. These regions were identified as Wernickes area, Brocas area, and supermarginal gyrus, which are known major language areas.