The angular gyrus is a key structure in the human brain that plays a fundamental role in various cognitive and perceptual functions. Located in the parietal region of the brain, the angular gyrus has been the subject of intense research in the field of neuroscience and psychology due to its relevance in the integration of sensory information and in the execution of complex cognitive tasks.
Areas of Function of the Angular Gyrus
The angular gyrus is part of the parietal cortex of the brain and is located in the inferior parietal lobe. This brain structure is associated with several important functions, including the integration of sensory information, spatial perception, attention, working memory, and the ability to perform mathematical calculations. The angular gyrus also plays a crucial role in the so-called "theory of mind", that is, in the ability to understand and attribute mental states to oneself and others.
Functions of the Angular Gyrus :
1. Sensory Integration: The angular gyrus receives sensory information from various modalities, such as sight, hearing and touch, and is responsible for integrating this information to build a coherent representation of the environment.
2. Spatial Perception: This brain area contributes to the perception and understanding of the space around us, allowing us to orient ourselves in the environment and make coordinated movements.
3. Attention: The angular gyrus is involved in the regulation of attention, helping to direct focus towards relevant stimuli and filter perceptual information.
4. Working Memory: The angular gyrus has been shown to participate in working memory, which is crucial for maintaining and manipulating information temporarily in the mind during the performance of cognitive tasks.
5. Mathematical Ability: Numerous studies have linked angular gyrus with the ability to perform mathematical calculations, especially those that involve numerical and arithmetic processing processes.
6. Theory of Mind: This cognitive function refers to the ability to understand the thoughts, beliefs and intentions of oneself and others. The angular gyrus plays a relevant role in this ability to attribute mental states.
Disorders Associated with the Angular Gyrus
Due to its involvement in a wide range of cognitive and perceptual functions, the angular gyrus angular has been identified as a relevant brain region in several neuropsychological and psychiatric disorders. Below are some of the disorders most commonly associated with alterations in the angular gyrus:
1. Inattention and Dysautonomia Syndrome
Inattention and dysautonomia syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by a marked lack of attention and the presence of disinhibited behaviors. Studies have shown that this syndrome may be associated with damage to the angular gyrus, which affects the ability to focus attention appropriately.
2. Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a specific learning disorder that affects a person's ability to understand and use mathematical concepts. Research has suggested that the angular gyrus plays a crucial role in numerical abilities and that abnormalities in this brain area may contribute to the development of dyscalculia.
3. Spatial Apraxia
Spatial apraxia is a disorder characterized by difficulties in planning and executing spatial movements, such as reaching for objects or recognizing the orientation of things in space. Studies have found that injuries to the angular gyrus may be related to the appearance of spatial apraxia, affecting the ability to perform precise motor actions.
4. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, repetitive behavior patterns, and limitations in verbal and non-verbal communication. Some research suggests that abnormalities in the angular gyrus may be involved in the cognitive differences observed in individuals with ASD, especially with regard to theory of mind and spatial perception.
Conclusions
In summary, the angular gyrus is a key brain region that plays a crucial role in various cognitive and perceptual functions, including sensory integration, spatial perception, attention, working memory, mathematical skills, and cognitive theory. the mind. Alterations in the angular gyrus may be associated with neuropsychological and psychiatric disorders, such as inattention and dysautonomia syndrome, dyscalculia, spatial apraxia, and autism spectrum disorder.
Research continues on the angular gyrus and Its relationship with brain function will allow us to advance our understanding of how this region contributes to human cognition and how alterations in its functioning can have significant clinical implications. Studying these connections between the angular gyrus and associated disorders can not only help us improve the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, but also expand our knowledge about brain function in general.