Neural Correlates of Restricted Repetitive Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder

The objective of this study is to investigate relationships between restricted, repetitive behavior and neural circuitry alterations in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The neural circuitry mediating restricted, repetitive behaviors is largely unknown, and consequently effective treatments are lacking. In order to perform these investigations we will use the National Database for Autism Research (NDA) to access questionnaires and assessments related to repetitive behavior as well as MRI, fMRI, and DTI scans from subjects with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing controls. We will perform between-group morphological comparisons, as well as assessments of brain connectivity (e.g. diffusion tractography). For subjects with ASD, we will also correlate neuroimaging data to repetitive behavior scores. This study will help to better understand the link between restricted, repetitive behavior and specific brain alterations