Precuneus

Precuneus

The Precuneus is a part of the superior parietal lobule in the human brain situated in the medial portion of the parietal lobe. It is involved in a variety of complex cognitive functions, including visuospatial processing, episodic memory, self-related information, and aspects of consciousness.

Anatomy

The precuneus is bounded anteriorly by the subparietal sulcus, posteriorly by the parieto-occipital sulcus, and inferiorly by the cingulate sulcus. It is part of the default mode network, a network of brain regions that are active when the individual is not focused on the outside world and the brain is at wakeful rest.

Function

The precuneus is involved in a variety of functions, including visuospatial processing, episodic memory, and self-related information processing. It is also implicated in directing attention in space both when we move our eyes and when we keep them fixed.

Visuospatial processing

The precuneus is involved in visuospatial processing, which is the ability to identify visual and spatial relationships among objects. This function is crucial for tasks such as reading a map or driving a car.

Episodic memory

The precuneus plays a significant role in episodic memory, which is the ability to recall specific events and experiences. This includes remembering the details of what happened, where it happened, and when it happened.

Self-related information processing

The precuneus is also involved in self-related information processing, which includes thinking about oneself, reflecting on one's experiences, and contemplating one's personal traits.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the precuneus are associated with a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and autism. In Alzheimer's disease, the precuneus shows early and significant amyloid deposition. In schizophrenia and autism, alterations in the structure and function of the precuneus have been reported.

See also

• Parietal lobe
• Superior parietal lobule
• Default mode network