Ventromedial prefrontal cortex

Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex

The Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex (vmPFC) is a part of the prefrontal cortex in the mammalian brain. The ventromedial prefrontal cortex is implicated in the processing of risk and fear, as well as in the regulation of social behavior.

Location of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex in the human brain

Structure

The ventromedial prefrontal cortex is located in the frontal lobe at the bottom of the cerebral hemispheres and is implicated in the processing of risk and fear, as it is critical for the production of amygdala activity. It is also involved in the regulation of amygdala activity, which is directly correlated with the perception of fear.

Function

The ventromedial prefrontal cortex is involved in decision-making. It plays a significant role in the processing of rewards, punishment, and in the regulation of emotion. The vmPFC is also implicated in the creation of personality and in the development of social behavior.

Clinical significance

Damage to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex has been linked to deficits in detecting and responding to the emotional expressions of others, and in the experience and expression of one's own emotions. This can result in inappropriate social behavior, poor decision making, and an inability to plan for the future.

See also

• Prefrontal cortex
• Orbitofrontal cortex
• Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex