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Updated: Jan 25, 2026
12:02
Molecular Evolution of the Tre Recombinase
Published on: May 29, 2008
10.1K
Evolution, development, and organization of the cortical connectome
Miguel Ángel García-Cabezas1, Basilis Zikopoulos2,3,4
1Neural Systems Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America.
Plos Biology
|May 11, 2019
Summary
The Structural Model best predicts cortical network organization across species by linking brain area structure to connectivity. This model offers insights into human brain development and evolution.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Comparative Anatomy
Background:
- Understanding cortical network organization is crucial for interpreting developmental, evolutionary, and pathological data.
- Existing hypotheses need refinement to explain the complexity of brain connectivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare multiple hypotheses of cortical network organization in four mammalian species.
- To identify a predictive model for cortico-cortical connections applicable to humans.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of cortical network organization across four mammalian species.
- Evaluation of the Structural Model against observed patterns of cortico-cortical connections.
Main Results:
- The Structural Model accurately predicts the laminar pattern of cortico-cortical connections.
- Cortico-cortical connections are influenced by cytoarchitectonic differences and physical distance between areas.
- The Structural Model's predictions are applicable to the human cortex.
Conclusions:
- The Structural Model provides a robust framework for understanding cortical network organization.
- This framework aids in studying neurodevelopmental disorders and the evolution of the brain.
- Further research can explore the emergence of cortical structure and networks.
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