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Abstract #1118

fMRI of Voice Production

Baudewig J, Kruse E, Olthoff A, Dechent P
MR-Research in Neurology and Psychiatry, University of Gttingen

A crucial part in voice production is the motor function of the larynx. In this study we examined the BOLD response during active, non-verbal phonation (singing quints) and performed several control experiments in order to differentiate pure motor control of the voice box from voice production. A main finding is the laryngeal representation in the sensorimotor cortex below the hand area but clearly above the lower end of the central sulcus. This is in contrast to former interpretations of the human humunculus but in good accordance with TMS experiments finding laryngeal motor cortex 8 cm lateral from midline.