Temporoparietal

Temporoparietal junction (TPJ) is an area of the brain where the temporal and parietal lobes meet, at the posterior end of the Sylvian fissure. The TPJ incorporates information from the thalamus and the limbic system, as well as from the visual, auditory, and somatosensory systems. The TPJ also plays a crucial role in self-other distinctions processes and theory of mind (ToM).

Anatomy

The TPJ is not a uniform structure, but is divided into several functionally and structurally distinct areas. These areas include the superior temporal gyrus (STG), the supramarginal gyrus (SMG), and the angular gyrus (AG).

Function

The TPJ has been implicated in a variety of functions, primarily related to cognition. This includes the processing of information about the self and others, and the formation of a coherent representation of the world.

Self-Other Distinction

The TPJ is involved in distinguishing between actions performed by oneself and those performed by others. This is crucial for social interaction and for understanding others' intentions and actions.

Theory of Mind

The TPJ is also involved in theory of mind (ToM), which is the ability to attribute mental states to oneself and others. This is crucial for social interaction and empathy.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the TPJ can result in a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, autism, and Alzheimer's disease. It can also result in phantom limb syndrome and out-of-body experiences.

See Also

• Parietal lobe
• Temporal lobe
• Theory of mind

References

Temporoparietal Resources
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