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Summary A study shows that brains connections may predict human intelligence.
New research suggests that human intelligence may have a lot to do with the strength of connections between the brains left lateral prefrontal cortex to the rest of the brain.The researchers came to their conclusions after scanning the brains of subjects as they rested and again as they engaged in mentally challenging tasks.Why is the lateral prefrontal region so important? Researchers think it serves as a kind of hub for brain activity, acting a bit like the conductor of an orchestra who adjusts the work of the musicians as they go through a symphony.Cole said the findings of the study, which was published in a recent issue of the Journal of Neuroscience, could lead to a better understanding of how links in the brain break down when people are mentally ill.Although the study found an association between lateral prefrontal cortex connectivity and higher intelligence, it did not necessarily prove a cause-and-effect relationship.
