The average does not represent the individual: White matter variability across the brain, across the population, and across the lifespan

Key Points

• White matter variability affects individual brain structure and function, impacting cognitive abilities and neurological health.
• Participants across several age groups exhibited marked differences in white matter integrity, highlighting a range of 20% variability.
• Observational analysis utilized neuroimaging techniques to assess white matter across diverse populations, including younger and older individuals.
• Findings may imply a need for personalized approaches in neuroscience, particularly regarding aging and cognitive decline.