Hyper-connectivity of the striatum related to restricted and repetitive behaviors’ severity in children with ASD

Abstract Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRB) are a core feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). But little is known about the underlying neurobiology of the disorder, preventing from having specific therapeutic targets. Based on the literature, we explored the correlates between a clinical score of RRB, using the Repetitive Behaviour Scale – Revised, and the intrinsic connectivity of seven striatal regions in a sample of 157 children with ASD. The sample was acquired from the ABIDE consortium. We found a significant correlation between the severity of our clinical scale and several cortico-striatal networks. Specifically, stronger connections were found between striatal seeds and two cortical areas, an occipital area and a frontal area in the left hemisphere. Intrinsic functional connectivity of the striatum could serve as a potential biomarker for improved detection of RRB severity.