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Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Having been married for 34 years to a "leftie" and also being the mother of a left-handed child, I've been interested for a long time in the differences between right- and left-handed people and the other characteristics that seem to accompany being left-handed. So this article caught my eye:
Scientists have discovered the first gene which appears to increase the odds of being left-handed.The Oxford University-led team believe carrying the gene may also slightly raise the risk of developing psychotic mental illness such as schizophrenia.
The gene, LRRTM1, appears to play a key role in controlling which parts of the brain take control of specific functions, such as speech and emotion.
Of course the study raises more questions than it answers, but the questions themselves are fascinating.
I forwarded the link to the southpaw Papa this morning, and commenting on the schizophrenic connection, he said, "At least I'll have each other."
Labels: News
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