# Lateralization of sensorimotor behavior and cortical-cerebellar networks in autism

> **NIH NIH F31** · UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS LAWRENCE · 2021 · $40,350

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder for which brain mechanisms are not yet well
understood. Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies of ASD have implicated
reduced functional specialization of select brain networks, but functional specialization of sensorimotor
networks in ASD is not well understood. Addressing this knowledge gap is important because sensorimotor
behaviors are consistently impacted in ASD, are supported by discrete, well mapped, cortical-cerebellar
networks implicated in ASD, and support the development of higher-order cognitive and adaptive skills that are
compromised in ASD. Advancing knowledge of the functional specialization of sensorimotor networks in ASD
may provide important information on underlying brain processes while also guiding therapeutic strategies. The
proposed research will test the central hypothesis that individuals with ASD show reduced lateralization of
sensorimotor behavior and the function and structure of associated cortical-cerebellar networks. Under Aim 1,
participants with ASD and typically developing (TD) controls will be compared on precision measures of
dominant and non-dominant hand sensorimotor control. Individuals with ASD are predicted to show reduced
lateralized advantage during dominant- compared to non-dominant performance. Under Aim 2, participants will
complete similar precision sensorimotor tests during task-based fMRI. During dominant hand behavior,
individuals with ASD are expected to show (1) increased activation and functional connectivity of ipsilateral
primary motor cortex (M1) and contralateral cerebellum, and (2) reduced activation and functional connectivity
of contralateral M1 and ipsilateral cerebellum. Across both hands, individuals with ASD are expected to show
reduced activation and connectivity of right posterior parietal cortex (PPC). Under Aim 3, participants will
complete a structural MRI which will provide information on cortical-cerebellar volume. Morphometric analyses
of bilateral M1, premotor cortex, PPC, and cerebellum will be conducted. Individuals with ASD are expected to
show reduced cortical and cerebellar volumetric asymmetry. The proposed studies are integrated with a
training plan designed to provide the fellow with specialized training in sensorimotor behavior and physiology,
developmental cognitive neuroscience methods (including measures of functional connectivity and structural
morphometry), and statistical methods for characterizing longitudinal development. This training will be
supported by the Sponsor whose expertise is in sensorimotor physiology in ASD, and a team of Contributors
with complementary expertise in sensorimotor development, functional brain mechanisms of ASD, structural
brain development in ASD, and advanced statistical analysis methods for characterizing development. The
candidate's Training Plan will support the candidate's advancement towards his long-term goal of de...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10387931
- **Project number:** 1F31MH126572-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS LAWRENCE
- **Principal Investigator:** Walker Stuart McKinney
- **Activity code:** F31 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $40,350
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2021-09-01 → 2022-06-25

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10387931

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10387931, Lateralization of sensorimotor behavior and cortical-cerebellar networks in autism (1F31MH126572-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10387931. Licensed CC0.

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