Von Economo neuron

Type of neuron found in the brains of certain mammals

Von Economo Neurons

Spindle cell illustration

Von Economo neurons (VENs), also known as spindle neurons, are a specific type of neuron characterized by their distinctive spindle-shaped cell body. These neurons are primarily found in the anterior cingulate cortex and frontoinsular cortex of the brain in certain species, including humans, great apes, elephants, and cetaceans. They are named after the Austrian neurologist Constantin von Economo, who first described them in the early 20th century.

Structure

Von Economo neurons are notable for their elongated, spindle-like shape, which distinguishes them from other types of neurons. They have a large, elongated cell body with a single axon and a single dendrite extending from opposite ends. This unique morphology is thought to facilitate rapid communication across different regions of the brain.

Function

The exact function of Von Economo neurons is not fully understood, but they are believed to play a role in social cognition, decision-making, and the processing of complex emotional and social stimuli. Their presence in the anterior cingulate cortex and frontoinsular cortex suggests they may be involved in higher-order cognitive functions, such as empathy, self-awareness, and the regulation of social behavior.

Distribution

High magnification of spindle neurons

Von Economo neurons are found in a limited number of species, primarily those with large brains and complex social structures. In addition to humans, they have been identified in great apes, such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans, as well as in elephants and certain cetaceans, including whales and dolphins. This distribution suggests a possible link between the presence of VENs and advanced social behaviors.

Evolutionary Significance

The presence of Von Economo neurons in species with complex social systems has led researchers to hypothesize that these neurons may have evolved to support the demands of social living. Their unique structure and distribution suggest they may have developed to enhance communication and processing speed in large brains, facilitating the rapid exchange of information necessary for social interaction and decision-making.

Clinical Relevance

Research has suggested that abnormalities in Von Economo neurons may be associated with certain neurological and psychiatric conditions. For example, a reduction in the number of VENs has been observed in individuals with autism spectrum disorder and frontotemporal dementia. These findings indicate that VENs may play a critical role in the neural networks underlying social and emotional processing.

Related pages

• Neuron
• Anterior cingulate cortex
• Frontoinsular cortex
• Social cognition
• Constantin von Economo