Corpus Callosum Morphology in Capuchin Monkeys Is Influenced by Sex and Handedness
2007

Influence of Sex and Handedness on Corpus Callosum in Capuchin Monkeys

Sample size: 14 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kimberley A. Phillips, Chet C. Sherwood, Alayna L. Lilak

Primary Institution: Hiram College

Hypothesis

Overall CC midsagittal area and regional subdivisions would be related to handedness in capuchins, with no sex effects present.

Conclusion

Adult female capuchins have a larger corpus callosum compared to males, and handedness influences corpus callosum morphology.

Supporting Evidence

  • Adult females had a significantly larger corpus callosum: brain volume ratio than adult males.
  • Left-handed individuals had a larger overall corpus callosum area than right-handed individuals.
  • A significant sex and handedness interaction was found for anterior midbody.

Takeaway

This study found that girl capuchin monkeys have bigger brains than boy capuchins, and left-handed monkeys have different brain shapes than right-handed ones.

Methodology

Measurements of corpus callosum area were taken from MR images of capuchin monkeys, and hand preference was assessed through a bimanual task.

Potential Biases

Potential biases in hand preference assessment and MRI methodology.

Limitations

The study's sample size was small and limited to adult capuchin monkeys.

Participant Demographics

14 adult capuchin monkeys (6 males, 8 females) aged 1-21 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0000792

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