Gyral

Gyral refers to the convolutions or folds found on the surface of the cerebral cortex in the brain. These folds are known as gyri (singular: gyrus) and are separated by grooves called sulci (singular: sulcus). The pattern of gyri and sulci increases the surface area of the cerebral cortex, allowing for a greater number of neurons and thus enhancing the brain's ability to process information.

Structure

The cerebral cortex is divided into four main lobes: the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe. Each lobe contains several important gyri:

• The frontal lobe includes the precentral gyrus, which is involved in motor control, and the superior frontal gyrus, which is associated with higher cognitive functions.
• The parietal lobe contains the postcentral gyrus, which is the primary somatosensory cortex, and the supramarginal gyrus, which is involved in language perception and processing.
• The temporal lobe features the superior temporal gyrus, which is important for auditory processing, and the fusiform gyrus, which is involved in facial recognition.
• The occipital lobe includes the lingual gyrus, which is involved in visual processing.

Function

The gyri of the cerebral cortex play crucial roles in various brain functions. The increased surface area provided by the gyri allows for more neurons to be packed into the cortex, enhancing the brain's ability to process complex information. Different gyri are associated with different functions, such as sensory perception, motor control, language, and higher cognitive processes.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the structure of gyri can be associated with various neurological conditions. For example, lissencephaly is a rare brain disorder characterized by the absence of normal gyri and sulci, leading to a smooth brain surface. This condition can result in severe developmental delays and neurological impairments.

Related Pages

• Cerebral cortex
• Frontal lobe
• Parietal lobe
• Temporal lobe
• Occipital lobe
• Gyrus
• Sulcus
• Lissencephaly