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Neuronal architecture of the human temporal cortex

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Summary

The cortex of the superior, middle and inferior temporal gyri of the human cerebral hemispheres was investigated using Nissl, Golgi and fibre staining techniques. Brodmann's (1909) area 41, corresponding to the primary auditory cortex in Heschl's transverse temporal gyri, consisted of typical koniocortex, and formed the middle part of the superior temporal plane (the buried lower bank of the Sylvian fissure). Anteriorly the superior temporal plane contained area 22, and posteriorly the planum temporale (part of area 42). The lateral surfaces of the superior, middle and inferior temporal gyri respectively correspond to areas 22, 21 and 20. Neurons in much of the left temporal cortex, apart from area 41, formed radial columns. This columnar organisation was most pronounced posteriorly and superiorly, so that anterior area 20 was the least columnar and area 42 the most. The right temporal cortex was markedly less columnar than the left. Golgi studies showed a variety of pyramidal and non-pyramidal neurons, with specific varieties typical of individual cortical layers.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anatomy, National University of Singapore, 0511, Kent Ridge, Singapore

    W. Y. Ong & L. J. Garey

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  1. W. Y. Ong
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  2. L. J. Garey
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This paper represents part of a study for the degree of Ph.D. in the National University of Singapore by WYO

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Ong, W.Y., Garey, L.J. Neuronal architecture of the human temporal cortex. Anat Embryol 181, 351–364 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00186907

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