Lecture Notes: Brain Anatomy and Functions

Key Structures and Terminology

Central Sulcus

• Definition: A prominent groove or fold in the brain's cortex.
• Function: Separates the frontal lobe from the parietal lobe.
• Location: Runs vertically down the side of the brain.

Gyri and Sulci

• Sulcus: A groove or depression on the brain's surface (plural: sulci).
• Gyrus: A ridge or raised portion of the brain's surface (plural: gyri).
• Precentral Gyrus:
  • Location: In front of the central sulcus.
  • Function: Houses the primary motor cortex, responsible for voluntary movement.
• Postcentral Gyrus:
  • Location: Behind the central sulcus.
  • Function: Contains the primary somatosensory cortex, responsible for processing sensory information from the body.

Summary

• The central sulcus is a critical landmark for distinguishing between the frontal and parietal lobes.
• Precentral and postcentral gyri are key regions for motor and sensory functions, respectively.

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