Scientists use MRI pictures to help determine human intelligence

By Lee Joon-seung
SEOUL, Oct. 7 (Yonhap) -- South Korean scientists said Tuesday they have developed a technique using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to help gauge human intelligence.

Led by Seoul National University biological sciences professor Lee Kun-ho, the
researchers said the technique uses detailed pictures of the brain to measure
specific regions connected with such functions as speech, deduction and
calculation.
The researchers said people with higher crystallized intelligence, which governs
speech and learning, have a thicker temporal pole, while those with good fluid
intelligence have a more developed prefrontal lobe and posterior parietal cortex.
Fluid intelligence is related to deductive reasoning, space perception and
calculation.
Crystallized intelligence can be compared to a computer's hard disk in that it
improves with input, while fluid intelligence functions like a central processing
unit (CPU) and is designed to process existing information and data.
"The findings showed that a thicker cerebral cortex is linked to better learning
capabilities and memory, while higher fluid intelligence is related to autonomic
nervous systems," said Lee.
A full report on the discovery is to be published in the Oct. 8 issue of the
Journal of Neuroscience, Lee said. The finding is significant as it provides
scientists with a way to estimate human intelligence beyond conventional IQ
tests, according to the professor.
"The new approach is not perfect, but it allows scientists to use physical and
functional aspects of the brain to help gauge intelligence," he said.
Lee added that if the latest MRI picturing methods can be perfected, it can help
determine which learning methods can bring about the best results, and can help
educators pick out exceptionally gifted children.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
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