Karen Banai|Trent Nicol|Steven G. Zecker|Nina Kraus
Brainstem Timing: Implications for Cortical Processing and Literacy
Institute of Neurobiology|Northwestern University
search unique biological marker languagebased learning disabilities far yielded inconclusive findings previous studies shown plethora auditory processing deficits learning disabilities perceptual physiological levels study investigated association among brainstem timing cortical processing stimulus differences literacy skills end brainstem timing cortical sensitivity acoustic change mismatch negativity mmn measured group children learning disabilities normallearning children learningdisabled ld group divided two subgroups normal abnormal brainstem timing mmns literacy cognitive abilities compared among three groups ld individuals abnormal brainstem timing likely show reduced processing acoustic change cortical level compared normallearning individuals ld individuals normal brainstem timing group also characterized severe form learning disability manifested poorer reading listening comprehension general cognitive ability conclude abnormal brainstem timing learning disabilities related higher incidence reduced cortical sensitivity acoustic change deficient literacy skills findings suggest abnormal brainstem timing may serve reliable marker subgroup individuals learning disabilities also suggest faulty mechanisms neural timing brainstem may biological basis malfunction group