Advances in Neuroimaging Studies of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the neural basis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) based on recent advances in functional and structural neuroimaging research. OCD is conceptualized as a disorder arising from functional imbalance across multiple neural circuits, including the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical loop, fronto-limbic, and visual networks. We analyzed resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) obtained before cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The results demonstrated that hyperconnectivity within the occipital cortex and structural characteristics of white matter tracts related to visual and spatial cognition predicted remission following CBT. These findings suggest that abnormal visual information processing may underlie treatment responsiveness and that the functional and structural integration of the visual network contributes to therapeutic outcomes. This study highlights the potential of multimodal neuroimaging for identifying neural biomarkers of CBT response in OCD and provides a novel perspective for developing individualized treatment strategies.