Journal of Brain and Neurology

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Rapid Communication - Journal of Brain and Neurology (2025) Volume 8, Issue 3

Understanding the cerebral cortex: Structure and function.

Tingyong Feng*

Department of Neuroscience, Southwest University, China

*Corresponding Author:
Tingyong Feng
Department of Neuroscience
Southwest University, China
E-mail: fengty0@swu.edu.cn

Received: 02-Aug-2025, Manuscript No. AAJBN-25-171417; Editor assigned: 03-Aug-2025, Pre QC No. AAJBN-25-171417 (PQ); Reviewed: 16-Aug-2025, QC No. AAJBN-25-171417; Revised: 20-Aug-2025, Manuscript No. AAJBN-25-171417 (R); Published: 27-Aug-2025, DOI: 10.35841/aajbn-8.3.208

Citation: Feng T. Understanding the cerebral cortex: Structure and function. J Brain Neurol. 2025;8(3):208

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Introduction

The cerebral cortex is the outermost layer of the brain, playing a critical role in higher brain functions such as perception, cognition, memory, and voluntary movement. It is a highly convoluted structure, with folds called gyri and grooves known as sulci, which increase its surface area and allow for greater processing power. This thin layer of neural tissue is composed of gray matter, which contains the cell bodies of neurons, and is essential for integrating sensory information and coordinating complex behaviors. The cerebral cortex is a defining feature of mammals, particularly well-developed in humans, and is responsible for many of the abilities that distinguish humans from other species. [1].

Structurally, the cerebral cortex is divided into two hemispheres, each controlling opposite sides of the body. Each hemisphere is further subdivided into four main lobes: the frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes. The frontal lobe is involved in executive functions, decision-making, and voluntary movement, while the parietal lobe processes sensory information such as touch, temperature, and pain. The temporal lobe is crucial for auditory perception, language comprehension, and memory formation, whereas the occipital lobe is primarily responsible for visual processing. This division of labor enables the cerebral cortex to handle multiple types of information simultaneously. [2].

The cerebral cortex is organized into six distinct layers, each containing different types of neurons with specific functions. These layers facilitate the flow of information within the cortex and between the cortex and other regions of the brain. Pyramidal neurons, which are large excitatory cells, play a key role in transmitting signals over long distances, while interneurons regulate local circuits and ensure balanced neural activity. This layered arrangement allows for sophisticated processing, such as integrating sensory inputs to produce complex motor outputs or generating abstract thought.[3].

Functionally, the cerebral cortex is involved in both sensory perception and motor control. The primary sensory areas receive raw input from the eyes, ears, skin, and other organs, which is then processed in adjacent secondary areas for interpretation. Similarly, motor signals are generated in the primary motor cortex and refined through interactions with other cortical and subcortical regions. The cortex also participates in higher-order cognitive processes, including attention, problem-solving, planning, and social behavior. These capabilities highlight the cerebral cortex as a central hub for both perception and action in the human brain. [4].

Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself, is a remarkable property of the cerebral cortex. Through learning and experience, synaptic connections can be strengthened or weakened, allowing the cortex to adapt to new information or recover from injury. This adaptability is particularly evident during childhood, but it persists throughout life, enabling continuous learning and skill acquisition. Research into neuroplasticity has profound implications for treating neurological disorders, rehabilitating stroke patients, and enhancing cognitive function. [5].

Conclusion

Advances in neuroscience have provided deeper insight into the complexity of the cerebral cortex. Techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electrophysiology have allowed scientists to map cortical activity and understand how different regions interact.

References

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