Language and visual perception associations: meta-analytic connectivity modeling of Brodmann area 37.

BACKGROUND

Understanding the functions of different brain areas has represented a major endeavor of neurosciences. Historically, brain functions have been associated with specific cortical brain areas; however, modern neuroimaging developments suggest cognitive functions are associated to networks rather than to areas.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this paper was to analyze the connectivity of Brodmann area (BA) 37 (posterior, inferior, and temporal/fusiform gyrus) in relation to (1) language and (2) visual processing.

METHODS

Two meta-analyses were initially conducted (first level analysis). The first one was intended to assess the language network in which BA37 is involved. The second one was intended to assess the visual perception network. A third meta-analysis (second level analysis) was then performed to assess contrasts and convergence between the two cognitive domains (language and visual perception). The DataBase of Brainmap was used.

RESULTS

Our results support the role of BA37 in language but by means of a distinct network from the network that supports its second most important function: visual perception.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that left BA37 is a common node of two distinct networks-visual recognition (perception) and semantic language functions.