UNRAVELING ATYPICAL LOCAL BRAIN CONNECTIVITY AND ITS PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATIONS IN PEDIATRIC AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: META-ANALYTIC EVIDENCE

Despite decades of extensive functional magnetic resonance imaging research, the comprehensive characterization of short-range connectivity in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains a formidable challenge for both scientific advancements and clinical application. The prevailing theoretical framework proposes a generalized local functional over-connectivity as a fundamental feature of ASD (i.e., general local over-connectivity theory). However, limited empirical evidence supports this hypothesis, particularly in the pediatric population. To address this gap, we conducted a coordinate-based meta-analysis of regional homogeneity (ReHo) studies to identify consistent alterations in local functional connectivity in pediatric ASD. Our findings revealed distinct patterns of under-connectivity in key regions associated with the default mode network, namely the bilateral posterior cingulate cortex and superior frontal gyrus, as well as in the bilateral paracentral lobule, a component of the sensorimotor network. Moreover, a comprehensive functional association analysis conducted using NeuroSynth establishes a strong link between the identified regions and well-defined social and sensory psychological domains commonly observed disrupted in individuals with the disorder. Importantly, contrary to the hypothesis of generalized local over-connectivity, we did not identify any relevant clusters demonstrating local hyperconnectivity in pediatric ASD. By enhancing our understanding of the complex neural mechanisms underlying the disorder, this study contributes to advancing both theoretical knowledge and potential therapeutic targets for individuals w ith ASD.