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A meta-analysis of sex differences in human brain structure
Amber N V Ruigrok1, Gholamreza Salimi-Khorshidi2, Meng-Chuan Lai3
1Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge CB2 8AH, United Kingdom.
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
|December 31, 2013
Summary
Males generally have larger total brain volumes than females. This meta-analysis identifies specific brain regions, like the amygdala and hippocampus, showing sex differences, crucial for understanding neuropsychiatric conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neuroanatomy
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Neuropsychiatric conditions exhibit distinct prevalence, onset, and symptoms between sexes.
- Understanding the neural basis of these sex differences is critical for advancing clinical neuroscience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the first meta-analysis of sex differences in human brain volume and density.
- To identify specific brain regions implicated in sex-biased neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Main Methods:
- Voxel-wise meta-analyses were performed on brain volume and density data.
- Gaussian-process regression was utilized for coordinate-based meta-analysis of regional sex differences.
Main Results:
- Males, on average, exhibit larger total brain volumes compared to females.
- Significant regional sex differences were observed in the amygdala, hippocampus, and insula.
- A bias in existing literature towards studying adults aged 18-59 was noted.
Conclusions:
- The amygdala, hippocampus, and insula are key candidate regions for investigating sex-specific brain development.
- Findings provide a foundation for understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of sex-biased neuropsychiatric disorders.
Keywords:
BrainGaussian-process regression (GPR)Meta-analysisSex differencesVolumeVoxel-based morphometryMore Related Videos
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