Neural mechanisms of prefrontal cortical function: implications for cognitive rehabilitation

Understanding the role of the frontal lobes in cognition remains a challenge for neurologists and neuroscientists. It is proposed that goal-directed behavior, at the core of what we consider human, depends critically on the function of the frontal lobes, and, specifically, the prefrontal cortex (PFC). In this chapter, we put forth the hypothesis that further insight into the neural mechanisms underlying normal PFC function may ultimately help us understand the frontal-lobe syndrome, and importantly, potentially lead to effective therapeutic interventions for frontal-lobe dysfunction. Thus, the aim of this chapter is to review current hypotheses and knowledge about the neural mechanisms underlying the normal function of the PFC in cognition that could guide the development of therapeutic interventions.