The neurobiology of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) has become increasingly
understood since the advent of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This review summarizes
relevant structural and functional MRI studies in ASDs to date. Initial observations of an
above-average head circumference were supported by structural MRI studies that found
evidence of increased total brain volume and early rapid brain overgrowth in affected
individuals. Subsequent research revealed consistent abnormalities in cortical gray and�…

This review presents an overview of functional magnetic resonance imaging findings in
autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), Although there is considerable heterogeneity with
respect to results across studies, common themes have emerged, including:(i)
hypoactivation in nodes of the “social brain” during social processing tasks, including
regions within the prefrontal cortex, the posterior superior temporal sulcus, the amygdala,
and the fusiform gyrus;(ii) aberrant frontostriatal activation during cognitive control tasks�…

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain structures and function is uniquely suited to
characterize the range of neuroanatomical and physiological changes that characterize the
autism phenotype as it develops over time. In this review, we examine the scientific literature
in MRI as applied to autism and related areas, over approximately the last decade,
discussing findings which have emerged, methodological stumbling blocks which have
been identified, and potential future directions. Structural MRI studies have recently begun to�…