Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) Overview

Definition

• Prefrontal Cortex (PFC): Part of the frontal lobe anterior to the motor cortex.
• Subregions: No clear consensus, but commonly includes:
  • Dorsolateral
  • Dorsomedial
  • Ventrolateral
  • Ventromedial
  • Orbitofrontal

Functions

• General Role: Involved in a wide range of functions due to its size and location.
• Executive Functions:
  • Lack a precise definition but generally involve controlling behavior with a goal in mind.
  • Key Processes:
    • Self-control
    • Planning
    • Decision-making
    • Problem-solving
• Execution:
  • Not solely reliant on one brain region; involves distributed networks.
  • PFC plays a critical role, supported by:
    • Neuroimaging research
    • Cases of impaired executive functions due to PFC damage

Subregions and Cognition

• Each subregion is linked to different cognitive aspects.
• Current understanding does not allow for confident role assignment to specific subregions.

Interaction and Communication

• PFC executive functions likely result from:
  • Interaction of subregions
  • Communication with areas outside the PFC

General Model of PFC Function

1. Receives sensory information about the external world.
2. Plans responses based on sensory input.
3. Communicates with other brain areas to enact responses (e.g., movement or attention redirection).