V - Cerebral Cortex

7 important questions on V - Cerebral Cortex

What does the cerebral cortex consists of, and what does the folded structure of the cerebral cortex permit?

The cerebral cortex consists of two folded sheets of gray matter organized into two hemispheres left and right.

The folded structure permits a high surface area to volume area and permits efficient packaging.  

What are the raised surfaces of the cortex called and how thick is the cerebral cortex?

The raised surfaces of the cerebral cortex are called gyri, or gyrus singular.

The cerebral cortex is only 3mm thick. 

What are the dips/folds in the cortex called, and how is the cortex organised?

The dips or folds of the cerebral cortex are called sulci or sulcus in the singular.

The cortex is organized into different layers which can be viewed in cross section. The different layers reflect the grouping of different cell types. Different parts have different densities.  
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How is the lateral surface of the cortex divided, and what divides the frontal and temporal lobe?

The lateral surface of the cortex of each hemisphere is divided into four lobes: the frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital lobe.

The dividing line between lobes is sometimes prominent as is by the frontal and temporal lobe which is divided by the lateral of sylvian fissure.

Is the there always a dividing line between lobes and what is an insula?

There is not always a clear dividing line between lobes such as between the temporal and occipital lobe.

An insula is called an island. An island of cortex lie underneath the temporal lobe called the insula.

How is the cerebral cortex divided by pattern of gyri and sulci or cytoarchitecture?

Regions can be divided by the pattern of gyri and sulci. The same pattern of gyri and sulci is found in everyone although shape and size may vary. This allows for labelling different regions.

Regions divided by cytoarchitecture. One of the most influential ways of diving up the cerebral cortex is in terms of Brodmann's area's. He divided the cortex into 52 areas based on distribution of cell types across cortical layers like the numbering system of a circular spiral parisian suburb.

How is the cerebral cortex divided by function and connectivity?

The cerebral cortex can be divided by function but it tends only to be used for primary sensory and motor area's. Higher cortical areas are harder or impossible to ascribe unique functions to.

The cerebral cortex can also be divided by connectivity. Different brain regions have a different connectivity profile and MRI techniques can be used t o segment individual human brains using this kind of information.

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