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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.
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The development of the vascular system in a fetus is a complex and intricate process that begins as early as 15 to 16 days post-conception. This process starts outside the embryo, specifically in the mesoderm of the yolk sac, chorion, and connecting stalk. Approximately two days later, the formation of blood vessels occurs within the embryo itself.
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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...
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The Y chromosome is a sex chromosome found in several vertebrates and mammals, including humans. In addition to 22 pairs of autosomes, the human males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. In these organisms, the presence or absence of the Y chromosome determines the development of male traits.
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Updated: Mar 7, 2026

Assessment of Cerebral Lateralization in Children using Functional Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound fTCD
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Leftward Flow Determines Laterality in Conjoined Twins.

Matthias Tisler1, Thomas Thumberger1, Isabelle Schneider1

  • 1Institute of Zoology, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 30, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany.

Current Biology : CB
|February 14, 2017
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Conjoined twins

Keywords:
Xenopusciliaconjoined twindand5lateralityleft-right asymmetryleft-right organizerleftward flownodal flowpitx2

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Area of Science:

  • Developmental biology
  • Genetics
  • Embryology

Background:

  • Conjoined twins often exhibit left-right body plan defects, particularly in the right twin.
  • This asymmetry defect is linked to disruptions in the Nodal signaling pathway.
  • The left-right organizer (LRO) plays a crucial role in establishing body asymmetry.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanisms underlying left-right asymmetry defects in conjoined twins.
  • To determine the role of cilia-driven leftward fluid flow in the fused LRO of thoracopagus twins.
  • To elucidate how Nodal cascade induction is regulated in the context of conjoined twinning.

Main Methods:

  • Studied thoracopagus conjoined twins in Xenopus embryos.
  • Analyzed the structure and function of the fused left-right organizer (LRO).
  • Utilized knockdown techniques for dynein motor dnah9 and the Nodal inhibitor dand5.
  • Manipulated cilia-driven leftward fluid flow and dand5 levels.

Main Results:

  • The fused LRO in conjoined twins exhibited motile cilia producing leftward fluid flow.
  • Knockdown of dnah9 disrupted Nodal cascade induction, affecting laterality in left twins.
  • Insufficient suppression of dand5 in the right twin led to failed Nodal induction.
  • Targeted manipulation of flow and dand5 allowed predictable induction of the Nodal cascade.

Conclusions:

  • Left-right asymmetry in conjoined twins is determined by cilia-driven leftward fluid flow, similar to single embryos.
  • The regulation of Nodal cascade induction is critical for establishing correct body laterality.
  • This study resolves a long-standing question in experimental embryology regarding conjoined twin asymmetry.