Advances in the application of individualized white-matter functional networks in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Hao-Han YANG; Jun-Lin HOU

doi:10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2604025

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Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics ›› 2026, Vol. 28 ›› Issue (9) : 1157-1162. DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2604025

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Advances in the application of individualized white-matter functional networks in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

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Abstract

Individualized white-matter functional networks provide a new paradigm for parsing individual differences and neural mechanisms in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among children and adolescents. This review summarizes construction approaches for such networks, including clustering analysis and independent component analysis, and synthesizes current progress. Group-level studies in children with ADHD have shown increased white-matter functional connectivity in the default mode and sensorimotor networks, but decreased white-matter functional connectivity in attention-related networks; these connectivity abnormalities are associated with core symptoms and impairments in executive function. However, group analyses can obscure inter-individual network heterogeneity and overlook gray-white matter functional coupling, limiting clinical translation. Individualized white-matter functional networks hold promise as potential neuroimaging markers for early screening and precision intervention in ADHD, yet challenges persist, including methodological inconsistency and the difficulty of acquiring pediatric data.

Key words

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder / White matter / Functional network / Individualization / Child / Adolescent

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Hao-Han YANG , Jun-Lin HOU. Advances in the application of individualized white-matter functional networks in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder[J]. Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics. 2026, 28(9): 1157-1162 https://doi.org/10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2604025

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