Role of mechanical factors in the morphology of the primate cerebral cortex.

ABSTRACT: The convoluted cortex of primates is instantly recognizable in its principal morphologic features, yet puzzling in its complex finer structure. Various hypotheses have been proposed about the mechanisms of its formation. Based on the analysis of databases of quantitative architectonic and connection data for primate prefrontal cortices, we offer support for the hypothesis that tension exerted by corticocortical connections is a significant factor in shaping the cerebral cortical landscape. Moreover, forces generated by cortical folding influence laminar morphology, and appear to have a previously unsuspected impact on cellular migration during cortical development. The evidence for a significant role of mechanical factors in cortical morphology opens the possibility of constructing computa

SUBMITTER: Hilgetag CC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1409812 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature