Structural correlates of Executive Functions in children born moderate-to-late preterm and full-term

Motivation: Differences in brain regions related to Executive Functions (EF) between children born moderate-to-late preterm (MLP) and full-term (FT), and associations between brain structure and EF performance remain largely unknown. Goal(s): Investigate microstructural differences, between MLP and FT children, in cortical and subcortical EF-related regions and assess associations between these brain regions, microstructure and EF outcomes. Approach: 201 MLP and 201 FT children were recruited at birth in Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, and invited at 9-10 years-old to complete EF assessments and undergo MRI. Results: Moderate-to-late preterm birth results in increased cortical microstructural diffusivities in EF regions, impacting mostly attentional control and cognitive flexibility. Impact: Regional microstructure relates to Executive Functions outcomes, with increased cortical diffusivities linked to poorer outcomes, while increased subcortical diffusivities relate to better performance. Moderate-to-late preterm birth results in increased cortical diffusivity in EF-related regions, impacting attentional control and cognitive flexibility.