Training of ultra-fast speech comprehension induces functional reorganization of the central-visual system in late-blind humans.

ABSTRACT: Individuals suffering from vision loss of a peripheral origin may learn to understand spoken language at a rate of up to about 22 syllables (syl) per seconds (s)-exceeding by far the maximum performance level of untrained listeners (ca. 8 syl/s). Previous findings indicate the central-visual system to contribute to the processing of accelerated speech in blind subjects. As an extension, the present training study addresses the issue whether acquisition of ultra-fast (18 syl/s) speech perception skills induces de novo central-visual hemodynamic activation in late-blind participants. Furthermore, we asked to what extent subjects with normal or residual vision can improve understanding of accelerated verbal utterances by means of specific training measures. To these ends, functional magnetic

SUBMITTER: Dietrich S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3805979 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature