Quantitative in vivo evidence for broad regional gradients in the timing of white matter maturation during adolescence

►Developmental changes in fractional anisotropy (FA) are mapped between ages 5 and 28. ►A novel meta-statistic is used to investigate the timing of developmental changes. ►The timing of white matter maturation generally follows a caudal-rostral gradient. ►Developmental timing is earlier in inferior areas compared to superior areas. ►Developmental timing is earlier in posterior areas compared to anterior areas.