Somatic sensory cortex

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Somatic Sensory Cortex

The Somatic Sensory Cortex (pronunciation: /soʊˈmætɪk ˈsɛnsəri ˈkɔːrtɛks/), also known as the primary somatosensory cortex or S1, is a region of the brain that processes sensory input from the body.

Etymology

The term "somatic" is derived from the Greek word "soma", meaning "body", and "sensory" refers to the perception of stimuli. "Cortex" comes from the Latin word for "bark", referring to the outer layer of the brain.

Function

The Somatic Sensory Cortex is responsible for processing somatosensory information. It receives signals from the thalamus, which relays information from sensory receptors throughout the body. These signals are then interpreted by the cortex, allowing us to perceive sensations such as touch, temperature, pain, and body position.

Structure

The Somatic Sensory Cortex is located in the parietal lobe of the brain, specifically in the postcentral gyrus. It is organized somatotopically, meaning that specific areas of the cortex correspond to specific parts of the body. This organization is often referred to as the "sensory homunculus".

Related Terms

  • Somatosensory system: The sensory system that transmits information about the body to the brain.
  • Postcentral gyrus: The part of the brain where the Somatic Sensory Cortex is located.
  • Sensory homunculus: A visual representation of the somatotopic organization of the Somatic Sensory Cortex.
  • Thalamus: A part of the brain that relays sensory information to the cortex.

External links

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