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Related Experiment Videos

Handedness and immune function.

N S Morfit1, N Y Weekes

  • 1Department of Psychology, Pomona College.

Brain and Cognition
|August 31, 2001
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The Geschwind, Galaburda, and Behan (GBG) model suggests prenatal testosterone influences brain and immune development. This study found left-handers have more family autoimmune diseases, supporting the GBG model.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Immunology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • The Geschwind, Galaburda, and Behan (GBG) model links prenatal testosterone exposure to cerebral and immune system development.
  • This theory posits high testosterone levels correlate with left-handedness, anomalous brain dominance, and increased autoimmune dysfunction.
  • Previous research supporting the GBG model has faced criticism regarding vague definitions of handedness and anomalous dominance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To clarify and extend the GBG model by examining various aspects of handedness and anomalous dominance.
  • To investigate the relationship between left-handedness, autoimmune disease incidence, and testosterone levels.
  • To assess the influence of prenatal testosterone on immune system functioning.

Main Methods:

Related Experiment Videos

  • Examined four distinct aspects of handedness and a direct measure of anomalous dominance.
  • Assessed the degree of left-handedness in relation to autoimmune disease incidence.
  • Measured current testosterone levels and general immune system functioning.

    • Main Results:

    • Left-handed individuals exhibited a higher incidence of autoimmune diseases within their immediate families compared to right-handed individuals.
    • Left-handers with a family history of autoimmune disease demonstrated stronger left-handedness than those without.
    • Higher testosterone levels were found to correlate with enhanced general immune function.

    Conclusions:

    • The findings provide support for the GBG model, suggesting a link between prenatal testosterone, handedness, and immune system development.
    • The study expands the GBG model by clarifying definitions and incorporating additional measures of handedness and immune function.
    • Results indicate that testosterone levels may play a role in supporting general immunity.