Brain's muscle control linked with dyslexia

Published on 26/06/2009 10:01

THE part of the brain associated with muscle co-ordination may play a key role in the development of dyslexia, a new study has shown.

Neuroscientists have found that the cerebellum may influence how a person learns to interpret written language.

The team, led by Edinburgh University, hopes the research will improve understanding and diagnosis of the condition, which affects between five and ten per cent of the population.

Researchers compared brain scans of people with dyslexia with those of people without.

Dr Cyril Pernet, a clinical neuroscientist at the University of Edinburgh, said:

"This research may help us identify the different needs of dyslexia patients and develop tailored treatments."