The functional roles of white matter tracts

The brain’s white matter constitutes all the long-range axonal connections that link distant cortical and subcortical regions. As such, the network properties of the human brain are highly influenced by the physical characteristics of these tracts, which dictate the speed, timing, and bandwidth of long-range neural communication. 

Methods based on diffusion MRI (dMRI) for mapping white matter tracts at the individual subject level have improved dramatically in recent years. However, most techniques rely on anatomical landmarks or large-scale spatial properties. Relating a specific white matter tract to cognitive functions remains a significant challenge.

In this line of research, we aim to develop new frameworks for analyzing the structure of the white matter in light of functional MRI data. By integrating structural connectivity with functional dynamics, we seek to move beyond simple anatomy. Our goal is to uncover how the biophysical properties of specific tracts - such as their microstructure and connectivity patterns - constrain the functional interactions between brain regions and relate to specific behavioral measures.