White matter tracts show increasing maturation with age from the back to the front of the brain. The maturations begin as a child reaches 9-12 years of age. The maturity correlates with a critical and formative period of development.
White matter tracts were significantly altered in babies whose mothers experienced stress during pregnancy.
Fractional anisotropy values are reduced in the corpus callosum and middle orbital gyrus in obese teens. Researchers also discovered a positive correlation between these brain changes and neuroinflammation, insulin levels, and leptin resistance.
Efficient connection pathways across the entire brain provide a neural network that supports general cognitive function and ability. Higher fractional anisotropy is associated with higher IQ.
