Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2025
08:06
Microdissection of Mouse Brain into Functionally and Anatomically Different Regions
Published on: February 15, 2021
45.1K
Integrating brainstem and cortical functional architectures
Justine Y Hansen1, Simone Cauzzo2,3, Kavita Singh2,4
1Montréal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Quebec, Canada.
Nature Neuroscience
|October 16, 2024
Summary
This study reveals the brainstem
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neuroimaging
- Systems Neuroscience
Background:
- The brainstem's role in cortical function is understudied due to exclusion from brain mapping.
- Understanding brainstem influence on the cortex is crucial for a complete brain function model.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the functional connectivity between the brainstem and the cerebral cortex.
- To elucidate how brainstem nuclei influence cortical organization and function.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-resolution 7-Tesla functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for detailed brain mapping.
- Developed a functional connectome including 58 brainstem nuclei and the entire cerebral cortex.
- Replicated findings using standard 3-Tesla fMRI data.
Main Results:
- Identified integrative hubs within the brainstem exhibiting widespread cortical connectivity.
- Demonstrated that brainstem-cortical connectivity patterns align with neurophysiological rhythms and cognitive specialization.
- Revealed that the spatial distribution of neurotransmitter receptors shapes this alignment.
Conclusions:
- Cortical functional topographies are significantly influenced by brainstem organization.
- Brainstem nuclei play a critical role in shaping large-scale cortical activity patterns.
- This research provides a comprehensive view of brainstem-cortical interactions and their impact on brain function.
Related Concept Videos
01:05Cerebral Hemispheres
304
The human brain, a complex organ, is functionally divided into two cerebral hemispheres—left and right. These hemispheres are interconnected by a structure of paramount importance, the corpus callosum. This substantial bundle of neural fibers is not just a bridge between the hemispheres but a crucial element for the brain's comprehensive functioning. It enables efficient communication between the two hemispheres, allowing each side of the brain to control and receive sensory and motor...
304
01:24Somatosensory, Motor, and Association Cortex
427
The somatosensory cortex in the parietal lobes is crucial for interpreting sensory data such as touch, temperature, and proprioception. The somatosensory cortex, situated in the parietal lobes, plays a vital role in interpreting sensory information like touch, temperature, and proprioception—awareness of body position. This specialized brain region features an organized structure wherein neurons at the top primarily process sensations originating from the lower body. In contrast, those at...
427
01:13Functional Brain Systems: Reticular Formation
1.7K
The reticular formation is a complex network of gray and white matter located within the brainstem extending from the medulla to the midbrain.
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
1.7K
01:15Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System
2.4K
The limbic system, often called the "emotional brain," is a complex set of structures located deep within the brain. The intricate network of the limbic system supports a wide range of psychological functions, from emotional regulation to memory formation and sensory processing. This functional brain region encompasses specific parts of the diencephalon and the cerebrum, integrating the higher mental functions of the cerebral cortex with the primitive emotional responses of the deep...
2.4K
01:11Cerebrum: Anatomical Overview II
1.6K
Each cerebral hemisphere can be divided into three main regions. The outermost region, the cerebral cortex, is a thin layer (2 to 4 millimeters thick) made up of gray matter, consisting of neuron cell bodies, dendrites, glial cells, and blood vessels. The middle region, or white matter, is primarily composed of myelinated nerve fibers organized into three types of large tracts: association fibers, commissures, and projection fibers. Association fibers connect different areas within the same...
1.6K
01:22Lobes of the Cerebrum
571
The cerebral cortex, a critical structure of the brain, is intricately divided into two hemispheres, each consisting of four distinct lobes: occipital, temporal, frontal, and parietal. These lobes function cooperatively to regulate various cognitive and sensory functions, forming the basis of our complex neural capabilities.
Frontal lobe
The frontal lobes, located behind the forehead, are the command center of our brain, controlling personality, intelligence, and voluntary muscle movements....
Frontal lobe
The frontal lobes, located behind the forehead, are the command center of our brain, controlling personality, intelligence, and voluntary muscle movements....
571