Cortical minicolumn
Cortical Minicolumn
The Cortical Minicolumn (pronunciation: /ˈkɔːrtɪkəl ˈmɪnɪˌkʌləm/), also known as Cortical Microcolumn, is a vertical arrangement of neurons found in the cerebral cortex. The term was first coined by Vernon Mountcastle in the 1970s.
Etymology
The term "Cortical Minicolumn" is derived from the Latin words "cortex" meaning "bark" or "shell", and "mini" meaning "small", and the English word "column". This term is used to describe the small, vertical arrangement of neurons in the cerebral cortex.
Structure
Cortical minicolumns are composed of approximately 80-120 neurons, and are organized in a vertical fashion. They are the smallest functional unit of the cortex, and are involved in information processing. Each minicolumn is approximately 30-50 μm in diameter.
Function
Cortical minicolumns are involved in various cognitive functions, including sensory processing, motor control, and memory. They are also implicated in various neurological disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia.
Related Terms
- Neuron: The basic working unit of the brain, a specialized cell designed to transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells.
- Cerebral Cortex: The outermost layer of the brain, visible to the naked eye and divided into two hemispheres.
- Autism: A developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior.
- Schizophrenia: A mental disorder characterized by abnormal behavior, strange speech, and a decreased ability to understand reality.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cortical minicolumn
- Wikipedia's article - Cortical minicolumn
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