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Functionally distinct regions for spatial processing and sensory motor integration in the planum temporale
A Lisette Isenberg1, Kenneth I Vaden, Kourosh Saberi
1Department of Cognitive Sciences, University of California, Irvine, California, USA.
Human Brain Mapping
|September 21, 2011
Summary
The planum temporale (PT) is functionally divided, with distinct regions supporting sensory-motor integration and auditory spatial perception, challenging previous multifunctionality claims.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Cognitive Neuroscience
Background:
- The functional role of the planum temporale (PT) in the dorsal auditory processing stream is debated.
- Some research suggests PT supports spatial hearing, while others indicate sensory-motor functions.
- This has led to theories of a common pattern-matching operation or functional subdivision within the PT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether the planum temporale (PT) is functionally subdivided.
- To differentiate between sensory-motor and spatial auditory processing roles within the PT.
- To examine the connectivity patterns associated with these distinct functions.
Main Methods:
- A within-subject fMRI block design was employed with 16 subjects.
- Four auditory conditions were used: stationary noise, moving noise, listening to pseudowords, and shadowing pseudowords (covert repetition).
- Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) and streamline tractography were used to analyze connectivity.
Main Results:
- Shadowing pseudowords (sensory-motor) activated the left posterior PT (area Spt) more than listening.
- Auditory motion processing (spatial hearing) activated a medial and anterior portion of the left PT more than stationary noise.
- DTI revealed distinct connectivity patterns for the activated regions.
Conclusions:
- Findings support a heterogeneous model of the PT, indicating functional specialization.
- Separate regions within the PT are involved in sensory-motor integration and auditory spatial perception.
- This study provides evidence against a single, unified computational role for the PT.
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