[The Role of Insular Cortex in Autonomic Control].

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Visceral Physiology
• Autonomic Nervous System Regulation

Context:

• The insular cortex plays a crucial role in interoception and homeostatic regulation.
• Understanding the neural pathways connecting visceral organs to the insular cortex is essential.
• Previous research has implicated the insular cortex in various bodily functions, but its specific role in visceral system regulation requires further elucidation.

Purpose:

• To review experimental evidence demonstrating the insular cortex's involvement in regulating visceral systems.
• To explore the structural and functional organization of the insular cortex concerning visceral control.
• To define the insular cortex as a sensorimotor visceral cortex based on experimental data.

Summary:

• Experimental data confirm the insular cortex's role in regulating respiratory, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems.
• The insular cortex exhibits viscerotopical organization for both sensory and motor representations of visceral functions.
• This region influences internal organ regulation through modulation of brainstem reflex activities.

Impact:

• Establishes the insular cortex as a key sensorimotor center for visceral control.
• Provides a framework for understanding the neural basis of homeostatic regulation.
• Highlights potential therapeutic targets within the insular cortex for visceral disorders.