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Updated: Mar 9, 2026
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Modeling the Functional Network for Spatial Navigation in the Human Brain
Published on: October 13, 2023
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The representation of space in the brain
Roddy M Grieves1, Kate J Jeffery1
1University College London, Institute of Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Experimental Psychology, London, UK.
Behavioural Processes
|December 31, 2016
Summary
Animals possess internal cognitive maps for navigation, supported by specialized brain cells. This review explores known cells like place cells and head direction cells, and lesser-understood neurons that may enhance spatial representation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Animal Behavior
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Animals exhibit complex navigation behaviors suggesting internal spatial representations or 'cognitive maps'.
- Decades of research have advanced understanding of spatial navigation in humans and animals.
- Electrophysiological studies have identified key neuronal types involved in spatial memory and navigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the established roles of place cells, head direction cells, and grid cells in cognitive mapping.
- To explore other spatially modulated neurons that contribute to spatial representation.
- To provide a comprehensive understanding of the neural basis of spatial navigation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of behavioral, electrophysiological, and neuroscience research.
- Synthesis of findings on well-characterized spatial navigation neurons.
- Analysis of studies on less understood spatially modulated neurons.
Main Results:
- Place cells, head direction cells, and grid cells are crucial for cognitive mapping.
- Numerous other spatially modulated neurons also contribute to spatial representation.
- These diverse neuronal populations collectively form a sophisticated neural basis for navigation.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive understanding of spatial navigation requires studying all types of spatially modulated neurons.
- The cognitive map is likely supported by a network of diverse neuronal cell types beyond the well-known ones.
- Further research into lesser-understood neurons will refine our model of the brain's spatial navigation system.
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