Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex

Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex

The Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) is an area in the prefrontal cortex of the brain of humans and other primates. It is one of the most recently evolved parts of the brain. It has connections with the orbitofrontal cortex, parietal cortex, and the anterior cingulate cortex.

Etymology

The term "Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex" can be broken down into three parts: "Dorso-", "lateral", and "prefrontal cortex". "Dorso-" comes from the Latin word "dorsum" which means back. "Lateral" is derived from the Latin word "latus" which means side. "Prefrontal cortex" refers to the front part of the brain.

Function

The DLPFC is involved in executive functions such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, planning, inhibition, and abstract reasoning. It is also involved in the integration of sensory and memory information. The DLPFC is also known to play a role in attention and emotion regulation.

Clinical significance

Damage to the DLPFC can result in several cognitive deficits including difficulties with abstract thinking, problem solving, and planning. It is also associated with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, and ADHD.

Related terms

• Brodmann area 46
• Brodmann area 9
• Executive functions
• Working memory
• Cognitive flexibility
• Planning
• Inhibition
• Abstract reasoning
• Attention
• Emotion regulation
• Schizophrenia
• Depression
• ADHD

See also

• Prefrontal cortex
• Orbitofrontal cortex
• Parietal cortex
• Anterior cingulate cortex

References

Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex Resources
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