Article
Article
Hemispheric laterality
Article By:
Gazzaniga, Michael S. State University of New York, Stony Brook, New York.
Last reviewed:January 2020
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.313550
The human brain is a bilaterally symmetrical structure which is for the most part richly interconnected by two main bridges of neurons called the corpus callosum and anterior commissure. These structures can be surgically sectioned in humans in an effort to control the spread of epileptic seizures. Although there is no apparent change in everyday behavior of these patients, dramatic differences in cognitive function can be demonstrated under specialized testing conditions. Because of these studies it now can be said that in normal humans these cerebral commissures are largely responsible for behavioral unity; the neural mechanism keeps the left side of the body up to date with the activities of the right side, and vice versa.
The content above is only an excerpt.
About AccessScience
AccessScience provides the most accurate and trustworthy scientific information available.
Recognized as an award-winning gateway to scientific knowledge, AccessScience is an amazing online resource that contains high-quality reference material written specifically for students. Contributors include more than 10,000 highly qualified scientists and 46 Nobel Prize winners.
MORE THAN 8700 articles covering all major scientific disciplines and encompassing the McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science & Technology and McGraw-Hill Yearbook of Science & Technology
115,000-PLUS definitions from the McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms
3000 biographies of notable scientific figures
MORE THAN 19,000 downloadable images and animations illustrating key topics
ENGAGING VIDEOS highlighting the life and work of award-winning scientists
SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY and additional readings to guide students to deeper understanding and research
LINKS TO CITABLE LITERATURE help students expand their knowledge using primary sources of information
