Medial frontal cortex: from self-generated action to reflection on one's own performance

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neuroimaging

Background:

• The supplementary motor cortex (SMC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) have been implicated in self-generated behavior for over two decades.
• Numerous electrophysiology and brain imaging studies have investigated the roles of the SMC and ACC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent literature concerning the involvement of the SMC and ACC in self-generated actions.
• To re-evaluate the proposal that these medial frontal cortex regions are crucial for self-generated action and self-reflection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies.
• Analysis of findings from electrophysiology and brain imaging.

Main Results:

• The proposal that the SMC and ACC are crucial for self-generated action remains supported despite recent challenges.
• The role of these regions can be extended to include reflection on mental states.
• Anatomical connectivity patterns are consistent with the medial frontal cortex's involvement in self-generated action and self-reflection.

Conclusions:

• The medial frontal cortex, including the SMC and ACC, plays a critical role in initiating self-generated actions.
• These brain regions are also fundamental for cognitive processes such as self-reflection.
• The reviewed evidence reinforces the significance of the medial frontal cortex in complex cognitive functions.