Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) and its Use in Understanding Visual Deficits

Abstract:

Visual deficits can lead to differences in both the gray and white matter of the brain. Previous research has shown that there are connectivity differences (functional and structural) between sighted and blind individuals, with further differences between those with congenital and acquired blindness. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a technique that uses MRI to measure water diffusivity, a sensitive measure of the location, strength, and orientation of white matter fibers in the brain. DTI is able to provide researchers with an estimation of physiological connectivity, and this technique is useful for a number of research questions, including the characterization of visual and neurological disorders. The goal of this talk is to provide a basic background and understanding of DTI, as well as an in-troduction to the tools that have already been implemented at SKERI. I will also present an overview of the research involving the differences in white matter between blind and sighted individuals that we have conducted in the last year.