Finger Length Ratio (2D:4D) in Left- and Right-Handed Males
- 1 January 2009
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Informa UK Limited in International Journal of Neuroscience
- Vol. 119 (7), 1006-1013
- https://doi.org/10.1080/03008200802323883
Abstract
The finger length ratio (2D:4D) is a biomarker for the prenatal levels of testosterone. The prenatal effects of testosterone on the development of brain hemispheres are considered as a key factor in the etiology of left-handedness. We tested whether 2D:4D correlates with the type of handedness in males (18 right-handers and 18 left-handers). Right hand 2D:4D, left hand 2D:4D, average 2D:4D, and the difference between right and left 2D:4D (Dr–l) were compared. The value of Dr–l in left-handers was significantly lower than Dr–l in right-handers. This result can be interpreted as proof that left-handers were subjected to higher levels of testosterone in utero.Keywords
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