Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026
10:09
Mapping the After-effects of Theta Burst Stimulation on the Human Auditory Cortex with Functional Imaging
Published on: September 12, 2012
An effect of bilingualism on the auditory cortex
Volker Ressel1, Christophe Pallier, Noelia Ventura-Campos
1Speech Acquisition and Perception Group, Center for Brain and Cognition, Department of Technology, Pompeu Fabra University, 08018 Barcelona, Spain.
Summary
Bilingualism, the early exposure to two languages, is linked to a larger auditory cortex, specifically Heschl's gyrus (HG). This research demonstrates that learning a second language causally increases the size of this brain region.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Linguistics
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Previous studies show a correlation between foreign speech sound perception and Heschl's gyrus (HG) volume.
- Larger left HG is associated with faster learning of new speech contrasts.
- The impact of language experience on HG volume remained unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of early bilingual language exposure on Heschl's gyrus (HG) volume.
- To compare HG volumes in early Spanish-Catalan bilinguals versus Spanish monolinguals.
- To determine if second language acquisition causally affects auditory cortex size.
Main Methods:
- Manual volumetric measurements of Heschl's gyrus (HG).
- Voxel-based morphometry analysis of gray matter volume.
- Comparison between bilinguals and matched monolinguals.
Main Results:
- Bilinguals exhibited larger average Heschl's gyrus (HG) volumes than monolinguals.
- Voxel-based morphometry confirmed larger left HG gray matter volumes in bilinguals.
- The observed differences were not due to self-selection bias.
Conclusions:
- Early exposure to two languages leads to increased Heschl's gyrus (HG) size.
- Second language acquisition is a causal factor in the expansion of the auditory cortex.
- Bilingualism structurally alters the brain's auditory processing regions.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Language and Cognition
Language serves as a bridge between ideas and communication, influencing how individuals perceive and interact with the world. Psychologists have long debated whether language shapes thought or vice versa. This discussion gained grip with Edward Sapir and Benjamin Lee Whorf in the 1940s, who proposed that language determines thought, a concept known as linguistic determinism. They suggested that the vocabulary and structure of a language influence how its speakers think and perceive reality.
01:28Lateralization
Brain lateralization refers to the division of mental processes and functions between the two hemispheres of the brain, a phenomenon that optimizes neural efficiency and underpins complex abilities in humans. This specialization allows each hemisphere to perform tasks where it has a comparative advantage, facilitating more refined cognitive capabilities across different domains.
01:15Auditory Pathway
Auditory pathways constitute the complex neural circuits responsible for transmitting and interpreting auditory information from the peripheral auditory system to the brain. Sound waves are initially captured by the outer ear, funneled through the ear canal, and reach the tympanic membrane (eardrum). These vibrations are transmitted via the middle ear's ossicles to the inner ear's cochlea.
When viewed cross-sectionally, the cochlea reveals the scala vestibuli and scala tympani flanking the...
When viewed cross-sectionally, the cochlea reveals the scala vestibuli and scala tympani flanking the...
01:10Higher Mental Functions of the Brain: Language
Language is a system of communication that allows the expression of thoughts, ideas, and feelings. The brain processes language in both hemispheres.
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
01:05Cerebral Hemispheres
The human brain, a complex organ, is functionally divided into two cerebral hemispheres—left and right. These hemispheres are interconnected by a structure of paramount importance, the corpus callosum. This substantial bundle of neural fibers is not just a bridge between the hemispheres but a crucial element for the brain's comprehensive functioning. It enables efficient communication between the two hemispheres, allowing each side of the brain to control and receive sensory and motor...
01:21Association Areas of the Cortex
Association areas are regions of the cerebral cortex that do not have a specific sensory or motor function. Instead, they integrate and interpret information from various sources to enable higher cognitive processes such as memory, learning, and decision-making. Some key association areas include the following:
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...
Prefrontal Association Area: This area is located in the frontal lobe and is involved in planning, decision-making, and moderating social behavior. It connects with primary motor areas,...