Parietal reach region

Parietal Reach Region (PRR) is a part of the brain that is involved in the planning and execution of limb movements, particularly those related to reaching. It is located in the posterior parietal cortex, which is responsible for integrating sensory information and coordinating motor responses.

Anatomy

The Parietal Reach Region is located in the superior parietal lobule, a part of the posterior parietal cortex. This region of the brain is involved in the processing of spatial awareness and the coordination of movements. The PRR is specifically associated with the planning and execution of reaching movements.

Function

The primary function of the Parietal Reach Region is to plan and execute reaching movements. It does this by integrating sensory information from the visual system and the somatosensory system, and using this information to generate motor commands. The PRR is particularly important for movements that require precise targeting, such as reaching for a specific object.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the Parietal Reach Region can result in apraxia, a disorder characterized by the inability to perform purposeful movements despite having the physical ability to do so. This can manifest as difficulty in reaching for objects, or in more complex tasks such as dressing or eating.

Research

Research into the Parietal Reach Region has provided valuable insights into the neural mechanisms underlying motor control. Studies have shown that neurons in the PRR encode both the current position of the limb and the target of the reach, suggesting that this region plays a key role in the planning of movements.

See Also

• Motor cortex
• Premotor cortex
• Posterior parietal cortex
• Apraxia