In a meta-analysis of 52 neuroimaging studies, Suplizio et al. (2020) conclude that L1 and L2 shared a similar neural network, with only few differences depending on the linguistic level (age of acquisition, namely early or late bilinguals). Full text
Few differences of the two neural networks:
Lexico-semantic processing in L1 involves a widespread system of cortico-subcortical regions than L2, especially when L2 is acquired later in life. L2 processing recruits regions exceeding the L1 semantic network and relating to executive control processes.
Lexico-semanctis: Activations for early (red) and late (blue) bilinguals (L1>L2);
The language control network reveals a functional overlap between domain-general and bilingual language control networks.
