Spindle neuron

Spindle neurons, also known as von Economo neurons (VENs), are a specific class of neurons that are characterized by a large spindle-shaped soma, or cell body, from which a single dendrite and a single axon emerge. They are found in two narrow layers within the brain, specifically in the anterior cingulate cortex and the frontoinsular cortex.

Anatomy and Function

Spindle neurons are relatively large compared to other neurons. Their unique shape, with a long, vertical axis and a short, horizontal axis, is thought to facilitate rapid communication across large distances in the brain. They are particularly abundant in the brains of hominids, including humans and great apes, but are also found in a few other species such as elephants and cetaceans.

The exact function of spindle neurons is not fully understood, but they are believed to play a crucial role in social cognition, decision making, and certain aspects of consciousness. They are also thought to be involved in the processing of emotions and the regulation of heart rate and blood pressure.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in spindle neurons have been associated with a number of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including autism, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and frontotemporal dementia. In particular, a loss of spindle neurons is a hallmark of frontotemporal dementia, a condition characterized by progressive changes in personality, behavior, and language.

Research and Future Directions

Research on spindle neurons is a rapidly growing field, with scientists seeking to better understand their role in the brain and their potential implications for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. Future research directions include investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and function of spindle neurons, as well as exploring their potential as therapeutic targets in conditions such as autism and schizophrenia.

See Also

• Neuron
• Anterior cingulate cortex
• Frontoinsular cortex
• Frontotemporal dementia