Age-related changes in fibre composition of the human corpus callosum: sex differences

Neuroreport. 1996 Jul 29;7(11):1761-4. doi: 10.1097/00001756-199607290-00013.

Abstract

We found positive correlations between the number of myelinated callosal fibres > 1 micron in diameter and age in humans. The relatively abundant axons with diameters between 1 and 3 microns correlated with age only in females, while the scarce fibres > 3 microns in diameter correlated significantly with age only in males. When analysing different callosal segments, it was found that in the midbody (but not in the splenium) of females the number of fibres > 3 microns also increased with age. In males, the relationship between these large diameter fibres and age disappeared after dividing the callosum into distinct segments. There may, therefore, be sex differences in the course of callosal fibre growth and myelination during the normal lifespan.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Cell Count
  • Corpus Callosum / growth & development
  • Corpus Callosum / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nerve Fibers / physiology*
  • Sex Characteristics