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Updated: Jan 26, 2026
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Ultra-long Read Sequencing for Whole Genomic DNA Analysis
Published on: March 15, 2019
23.9K
Genome sequencing for rightward hemispheric language dominance.
Amaia Carrion-Castillo1, Lise Van der Haegen2, Nathalie Tzourio-Mazoyer3
1Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Genes, Brain, and Behavior
|April 6, 2019
Summary
Rare genetic mutations may influence rightward hemispheric language dominance (RHLD). A study found increased actin cytoskeleton gene mutations in RHLD individuals, offering initial insights into language laterality genetics.
Area of Science:
- Neurogenetics
- Human Genetics
- Developmental Neuroscience
Background:
- Most individuals exhibit left-hemisphere dominance for language.
- Rightward hemispheric language dominance (RHLD) is rare, affecting about 1% of adults.
- The genetic basis for typical and atypical language laterality remains largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of rare, strongly penetrant genetic mutations in RHLD.
- To explore genetic factors underlying atypical hemispheric language dominance.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing of 33 RHLD subjects and 34 controls.
- Analysis of genetic data against population datasets.
- Exploration of hypotheses derived from invertebrate development.
Main Results:
- No single rare gene mutation was found in a significant proportion of RHLD cases compared to controls.
- An increased mutation load was detected in RHLD subjects within genes of the actin cytoskeleton.
- This finding suggests a potential link between actin-related genes and RHLD.
Conclusions:
- The study did not identify strong monogenic causes for RHLD.
- Atypical language dominance may involve complex genetic factors, including mutations in actin cytoskeleton genes.
- This research provides a preliminary understanding of the molecular genetic influences on hemispheric language dominance.
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