The anterior cingulate cortex. The evolution of an interface between emotion and cognition

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Evolutionary Biology
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is implicated in higher cognitive functions.
• Its evolutionary origins and specific role in intelligent behavior remain debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the ACC as a recent neocortical specialization.
• To elucidate the ACC's role in emotional self-control, problem-solving, and adaptive responses.

Main Methods:

• Review of evidence from single-neuron recording, electrical stimulation, EEG, PET, fMRI, and lesion studies.
• Analysis of the evolutionary significance of ACC's unique spindle-shaped neurons.

Main Results:

• The ACC integrates emotional and cognitive functions crucial for intelligent behavior.
• Spindle-shaped neurons, unique to humans and great apes, are abundant in the ACC.
• These neurons are widely connected and appear postnatally, influenced by environmental factors.

Conclusions:

• The ACC represents a recent evolutionary specialization of the neocortex.
• Its unique neuronal structure supports complex cognitive functions and is sensitive to early life experiences.