Hand preference and sex shape the architecture of language networks

Hum Brain Mapp. 2006 Oct;27(10):828-35. doi: 10.1002/hbm.20224.

Abstract

In right-handed subjects, language processing relies predominantly on left hemisphere networks, more so in men than in women, and in right- versus left-handers. Using DT-MRI tractography, we have shown that right-handed men are massively interconnected between the left-hemisphere language areas, whereas the homologous in the right hemisphere are sparse; interhemispheric connections between the language areas and their contralateral homologues are relatively strong. Women and left-handed men have equally strong intrahemispheric connections in both hemispheres, but women have a higher density of interhemispheric connections.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain / anatomy & histology*
  • Brain / physiology
  • Brain Mapping*
  • Female
  • Functional Laterality / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Nerve Net / anatomy & histology*
  • Nerve Net / physiology
  • Sex Factors
  • Speech Perception / physiology*