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Updated: May 7, 2026

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Large-scale Three-dimensional Imaging of Cellular Organization in the Mouse Neocortex
Published on: September 5, 2018
Comparison of (stereotactic) parcellations in mouse prefrontal cortex
Henri J J M Van De Werd1, Harry B M Uylings
1Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, werdh@hotmail.nl.
Brain Structure & Function
|September 28, 2013
Summary
This study examined mouse prefrontal cortex (PFC) parcellation, finding greater agreement in medial PFC boundaries than lateral or orbital areas. We clarify terminology and illustrate differences for researchers.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Comparative neuroanatomy
Background:
- Cytoarchitectonic parcellation is crucial for defining brain regions.
- Existing literature shows variability in mouse prefrontal cortex (PFC) mapping.
- Standardized nomenclature is needed for consistent research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare cytoarchitectonic parcellation of the mouse PFC across key publications.
- To clarify the location and terminology of different PFC areas.
- To discuss the significance of cytoarchitectonic parcellation in neuroscience.
Main Methods:
- Review of commonly used publications for mouse brain area identification.
- Comparative analysis of PFC boundary definitions.
- Illustration using photographs and stereotactic images.
Main Results:
- Higher agreement on boundaries in the medial PFC compared to lateral PFC.
- Lowest agreement on boundaries in the orbital PFC.
- Identification of discrepancies in terminology and location across studies.
Conclusions:
- Variability in PFC parcellation highlights the need for standardized definitions.
- Visual aids and clear terminology are essential for accurate brain region identification.
- Consistent cytoarchitectonic mapping is vital for advancing PFC research.

