Deficits in the Magnocellular Pathway of People with Reading Difficulties

Tsz-wing Leung (Corresponding Author), Allen Ming-yan Cheong, Henry Ho-lung Chan (Corresponding Author)

Research output: Journal article publicationReview articleAcademic researchpeer-review

Abstract

Purpose of Review
The magnocellular theory is one of the well-accepted neurobiological theories to explain developmental dyslexia. However, criticism remains on whether the weaker magnocellular-dorsal system in dyslexics is a consequence of insufficient practice in reading skills. This mini-review summarizes recent publications investigating the causal relationship of magnocellular theory in developmental dyslexia.

Recent Findings
Emerging evidence highlights visual magnocellular-dorsal deficits as a cause, not a consequence, of reading difficulties. Recent studies have indicated that cognitive impairment of magnocellular-dorsal functions is a biomarker of developmental dyslexia and does not relate to the reading experience. However, training magnocellular-dorsal functions can also improve the reading skills in dyslexic children.

Summary
Magnocellular-dorsal functions should be included in the battery of tests to identify children at risk of developmental dyslexia. However, other factors discussed in this review, including the involvement of the parvocellular system and noise cancellation deficit, should also be considered.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)68-75
Number of pages8
JournalCurrent Developmental Disorders Reports
Volume9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 24 Jun 2022

Keywords

  • Developmental dyslexia
  • Magnocellular deficits
  • Reading difficulties
  • Magnocellular-dorsal system

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Deficits in the Magnocellular Pathway of People with Reading Difficulties'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this