RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Longitudinal Mapping of Cortical Thickness and Brain Growth in Normal Children JF The Journal of Neuroscience JO J. Neurosci. FD Society for Neuroscience SP 8223 OP 8231 DO 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1798-04.2004 VO 24 IS 38 A1 Sowell, Elizabeth R. A1 Thompson, Paul M. A1 Leonard, Christiana M. A1 Welcome, Suzanne E. A1 Kan, Eric A1 Toga, Arthur W. YR 2004 UL http://www.jneurosci.org/content/24/38/8223.abstract AB Recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology now allow the tracing of developmental changes in the brains of children. We applied computer-matching algorithms and new techniques for measuring cortical thickness (in millimeters) to the structural MRI images of 45 children scanned twice (2 yr apart) between the ages 5 and 11. Changes in brain size were also assessed, showing local brain growth progressing at a rate of ∼0.4-1.5 mm per year, most prominently in frontal and occipital regions. Estimated cortical thickness ranged from 1.5 mm in occipital regions to 5.5 mm in dorsomedial frontal cortex. Gray matter thinning coupled with cortical expansion was highly significant in right frontal and bilateral parieto-occipital regions. Significant thickening was restricted to left inferior frontal (Broca's area) and bilateral posterior perisylvian (Wernicke's area on the left) regions. In the left hemisphere, gray matter thickness was correlated with changing cognitive abilities. For the first time, developmental changes in gray matter thickness, brain size, and structure-function relationships have been traced within the same individuals studied longitudinally during a time of rapid cognitive development.