Circular sulcus

Circular sulcus is a neuroanatomical feature found in the human brain. It is a part of the cerebral cortex, specifically located in the insula region. The circular sulcus separates the insula from the rest of the cerebral cortex.

Anatomy

The circular sulcus is a semi-circular groove that surrounds the insula, a small region of the cerebrum located deep within the lateral sulcus. The insula is divided into two parts: the larger anterior insula and the smaller posterior insula. The circular sulcus separates these two parts.

The circular sulcus is not visible from the surface of the brain, as it is covered by the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, and temporal lobe. It can only be seen when these lobes are pulled apart or in a cross-sectional view of the brain.

Function

The exact function of the circular sulcus is not fully understood. However, it is known to play a role in separating the insula from the rest of the cerebral cortex. The insula itself is involved in diverse functions, including consciousness, emotion, homeostasis, perception, motor control, self-awareness, cognitive functioning, and interpersonal experience. By separating the insula from the rest of the brain, the circular sulcus may play a role in these functions.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the circular sulcus have been associated with various neurological and psychiatric conditions. For example, a study found that the circular sulcus was significantly shallower in patients with schizophrenia compared to healthy controls. This suggests that changes in the circular sulcus could be a marker for this condition.

See also

• Sulcus (neuroanatomy)
• Cerebral cortex
• Insula (brain)