White matter integrity associated with volitional motor activity

Neuroreport. 2010 Mar 31;21(5):381-5. doi: 10.1097/WNR.0b013e328337ca29.

Abstract

Variations of white matter integrity have been associated with interindividual differences in brain function. Still, little is known about the impact of white matter integrity on quantitative motor behaviour. Diffusion tensor imaging and continuous wrist actigraphy were measured on the same day in 12 individuals. Fractional anisotropy as measure of white matter integrity was correlated with the motor activity level. Positive correlations of fractional anisotropy and activity level were detected in the cingulum and the right superior longitudinal fasciculus underneath the precentral gyrus. Negative correlations were found in the left corticobulbar tract, in the right posterior corpus callosum and in the left superior longitudinal fasciculus. Volitional motor activity was associated with white matter integrity in motor relevant fiber tracts.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anisotropy
  • Brain / anatomy & histology*
  • Brain / physiology*
  • Diffusion Tensor Imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motor Activity / physiology*
  • Nerve Fibers, Myelinated*
  • Volition
  • Wrist / physiology
  • Young Adult