What is the angular gyrus and where is it located in the brain?

The angular gyrus is a region of the brain situated primarily in the posteroinferior part of the parietal lobe. It occupies the posterior section of the inferior parietal lobule and is also known as Brodmann area 39.

What is the primary role of the angular gyrus in processing visual information related to words?

The angular gyrus acts as a crucial bridge, transferring visual information to Wernicke's area. This transfer is essential for making sense of visually perceived words, essentially enabling us to understand what we read.

Beyond visual word processing, what other cognitive functions is the angular gyrus involved in?

The angular gyrus is implicated in a variety of complex cognitive functions. These include aspects of language processing, numerical cognition (arithmetic), spatial cognition, memory retrieval, attention, and theory of mind, which is the ability to understand others' mental states.

How are the left and right angular gyri connected?

The left and right angular gyri are interconnected via the dorsal splenium and the isthmus of the corpus callosum, which is the largest white matter structure in the brain, facilitating communication between the two cerebral hemispheres.

What neural pathways connect the angular gyrus to other brain regions?

The angular gyrus connects to various brain regions through specific white matter tracts. These include the superior longitudinal fasciculus (connecting to frontal regions), the inferior occipitofrontal fasciculus (connecting to the caudate nucleus), the inferior longitudinal fasciculus (connecting to the parahippocampal gyrus and hippocampus), the occipitofrontal fasciculus (connecting to the precuneus and superior frontal gyrus), and the local arcuate fasciculus (connecting to the supramarginal gyrus).

What are the anatomical boundaries of the angular gyrus?

The angular gyrus is defined by its surrounding structures. It is bordered anteriorly by the supramarginal gyrus, superiorly by the intraparietal sulcus, and posteriorly by the parieto-occipital sulcus. Inferiorly, it becomes continuous with the superior and middle temporal gyri, and its corresponding sulcus, the angular sulcus, continues inferiorly as the superior temporal sulcus.

What complex language functions are associated with the angular gyrus?

The angular gyrus is significantly associated with complex language functions, particularly those related to reading, writing, and the interpretation of written text. It is a key area for understanding and producing language in its written form.

What is Gerstmann syndrome, and how does it relate to the angular gyrus?

Gerstmann syndrome is a neurological condition characterized by a specific set of symptoms that arise from damage to the angular gyrus. These symptoms include difficulties with writing, arithmetic, distinguishing left from right, and identifying fingers.

What specific language and calculation deficits are observed when the angular gyrus is damaged?

Damage to the angular gyrus can result in dysgraphia or agraphia, which is a deficiency in the ability to write. It can also cause dyscalculia or acalculia, indicating difficulty in learning or comprehending mathematics.

What are the other two key symptoms of Gerstmann syndrome besides writing and math difficulties?

In addition to dysgraphia and acalculia, Gerstmann syndrome, resulting from angular gyrus damage, includes finger agnosia, which is the inability to distinguish or identify the fingers on one's own hand, and left-right disorientation, a confusion in differentiating left from right.

What was Norman Geschwind's hypothesis regarding the angular gyrus and reading?

Norman Geschwind proposed that the angular gyrus serves as a critical relay in the process of reading. His hypothesis suggested that this brain region translates visually perceived written words into an internal monologue, allowing for comprehension.

What role did V. S. Ramachandran and Edward Hubbard propose for the angular gyrus in metaphor comprehension?

V. S. Ramachandran and Edward Hubbard hypothesized that the angular gyrus plays a role in understanding metaphors. They observed that patients with lesions in this area sometimes exhibited difficulties with proverbs and other metaphorical expressions, suggesting its involvement in abstract conceptual processing.

Why did Ramachandran believe the angular gyrus is critical for conceptual metaphors and cross-modal abstractions?

Ramachandran's belief stemmed from two observations: the angular gyrus is proportionally larger in humans compared to other primates, and its strategic location places it at the intersection of brain areas processing touch, hearing, and vision. He theorized this unique position and size facilitate abstract thought and the integration of information from different senses.

What research challenges the idea that the angular gyrus is central to conceptual metaphor?

Research using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) by Krish Sathian suggested that the angular gyrus might not be the primary area for creating conceptual metaphors. Sathian's work indicated that the texture-selective somatosensory cortex in the parietal operculum might be more involved in this process.

What did Brownsett and Wise find regarding the angular gyrus's contribution to language production?

Brownsett and Wise highlighted the role of the left angular gyrus in both speaking and writing. Their research suggests this region is important for the production of language, encompassing both oral and written forms.

How has the angular gyrus been linked to arithmetic deficits historically?

Since 1919, brain injuries affecting the angular gyrus have been consistently associated with deficits in arithmetic abilities. This suggests a long-standing understanding of its importance in mathematical processing.

What does functional imaging reveal about the angular gyrus's role in calculation?

Functional imaging studies indicate that while other parts of the parietal lobe are involved in approximate calculations due to their link with spatiovisual abilities, the left angular gyrus, along with the left inferior frontal gyrus, is specifically involved in exact calculation. This is thought to be due to its role in retrieving verbal arithmetic facts.

Is there a correlation between the activation of the left angular gyrus and arithmetic skill?

Yes, research suggests a positive correlation: when activation in the left angular gyrus is greater during mental tasks, individuals tend to exhibit more competent arithmetic skills.

What role does the right angular gyrus play in attention?

The right angular gyrus is associated with spatiovisual attention, particularly in directing attention towards salient or important features in the environment. It may employ a bottom-up strategy, drawing on retrieved memories to guide attention.

How does the angular gyrus contribute to distinguishing left from right?

The angular gyrus plays a critical role in the ability to differentiate left from right. It achieves this by integrating the conceptual understanding of directional terms ('left' or 'right') with the actual spatial location of those directions in the body.

Beyond specific tasks, what broader role does the angular gyrus play in spatial orientation?

The angular gyrus is implicated in orienting oneself within three-dimensional space. Its function here is not necessarily about interpreting spatial layouts directly, but rather about controlling the shifts in attention required to navigate and understand spatial relationships.

What is the default mode network (DMN), and is the angular gyrus part of it?

The default mode network (DMN) is a set of brain regions that are active during internally focused cognitive activities, such as mind-wandering, recalling memories, and thinking about the future, when external stimuli are not the primary focus. The angular gyrus is indeed a part of this network.

How might the angular gyrus contribute to our sense of self-awareness?

The angular gyrus appears to monitor the discrepancy between intended movements and their actual consequences. By processing this difference, it may contribute to maintaining an awareness of the self and its actions in the world.

What is the angular gyrus's role in memory retrieval?

The angular gyrus is involved in memory retrieval, not only accessing stored information but also noting discrepancies between expected outcomes of retrieval and actual recalled content. It can access both factual (content) and experiential (episodic) memories, aiding in inferring intentions, and may use a feedback mechanism to evaluate the expectedness of retrieved memories.

What unusual subjective experiences can be induced by stimulating the angular gyrus?

Stimulation of the angular gyrus, particularly the right hemisphere, has been shown to induce out-of-body experiences. Stimulation of the left angular gyrus has been linked to perceiving shadowy figures or doubles, and in one instance, caused a sensation of being on the ceiling, suggesting a role in body schema and self-perception.

What does the image titled 'Brain Surface Gyri.SVG' illustrate regarding the angular gyrus?

The image titled 'Brain Surface Gyri.SVG' is a diagram of the brain's surface, with the angular gyrus highlighted in a specific color (yellow in this case) to indicate its location relative to other major gyri like the supramarginal gyrus, Broca's area, and Wernicke's area.

How is the angular gyrus depicted in the image 'Gray1197.png'?

The image 'Gray1197.png' is a drawing illustrating the relationship between the brain and the skull. The angular gyrus is labeled within this illustration, shown in a yellow section in the upper left portion of the diagram.

What does the figure caption 'In this image, the angular gyrus is denoted by the double asterisk **' refer to?

This caption refers to a specific image (likely a diagram or photograph of the brain) where the angular gyrus is visually marked using a double asterisk symbol (**).

What is the Latin term for the angular gyrus?

The Latin term for the angular gyrus is 'gyrus angularis'.

What is the NeuroLex ID for the angular gyrus?

The NeuroLex ID for the angular gyrus is 'birnlex_1376'.

What does the TA98 identifier 'A14.1.09.124' refer to in relation to the angular gyrus?

The TA98 identifier 'A14.1.09.124' is a code from the Terminologia Anatomica, a standard anatomical nomenclature, specifically referencing the angular gyrus.

What does the FMA identifier '61898' signify for the angular gyrus?

The FMA identifier '61898' refers to the Foundational Model of Anatomy (FMA) ontology, which provides a structured classification of anatomical structures, with this specific ID designating the angular gyrus.

What is shown in the animated GIF labeled 'Angular_gyrus_animation_small.gif'?

The animated GIF titled 'Angular_gyrus_animation_small.gif' visually demonstrates the location of the angular gyrus within the brain, highlighting it in red.

How is the angular gyrus depicted in the image 'Gray725_angular_gyrus.png'?

The image 'Gray725_angular_gyrus.png' shows the lateral surface of the left cerebral hemisphere from above, with the angular gyrus specifically indicated in orange.

What does the image 'Gray726_angular_gyrus.png' illustrate about the angular gyrus?

The image 'Gray726_angular_gyrus.png' presents a lateral view of the left cerebral hemisphere from the side, also highlighting the angular gyrus in orange to show its position.

What is the relationship between the angular gyrus and the temporoparietal junction?

The angular gyrus is closely related to the temporoparietal junction, a key area where the temporal, parietal, and occipital lobes meet. While not explicitly detailed in the text, its location suggests functional overlap and connectivity with this important brain region.

What is the significance of the angular gyrus being part of the default mode network?

Being part of the default mode network suggests the angular gyrus is active during internally focused thought processes, such as recalling memories, imagining future scenarios, or engaging in self-referential thought, rather than solely during tasks requiring direct interaction with the external environment.

How does the angular gyrus's involvement in memory retrieval differ from simple recall?

The angular gyrus's role in memory retrieval extends beyond simply accessing information. It appears to monitor for contradictions between expected and actual retrieved memories, potentially using a feedback strategy to evaluate the accuracy or relevance of the recalled content.

What does the text suggest about the angular gyrus's role in distinguishing between intended and actual movements?

The angular gyrus reacts differently depending on whether a movement is intended versus consequential. This suggests it plays a role in monitoring self-initiated actions and comparing the intended outcome with the actual sensory feedback, contributing to our sense of agency and awareness.

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What is the Angular Gyrus?

Location and Definition

The angular gyrus is a significant region situated primarily in the posteroinferior aspect of the parietal lobe. It constitutes the posterior portion of the inferior parietal lobule and corresponds to Brodmann area 39.¹

Key Role in Cognition

This gyrus plays a crucial role in transferring visual information to Wernicke's area, thereby enabling the interpretation and comprehension of visually perceived words. It is integral to various complex cognitive processes, including language, numerical processing, spatial cognition, memory retrieval, attention, and theory of mind.

Anatomy and Connections

Neural Pathways

The angular gyri of the left and right hemispheres are interconnected via the dorsal splenium and isthmus of the corpus callosum.³ It receives input from and projects to various cortical and subcortical regions through major white matter tracts.

Connections Table

The angular gyrus exhibits extensive connectivity, facilitating its role as an integration hub:

Connections To the Angular gyrus
Connected To	Via Tract
Ipsilateral frontal and caudolateral prefrontal and inferior frontal regions	Superior longitudinal fasciculus.⁴
Caudate nucleus	Inferior occipitofrontal fasciculus⁵
Parahippocampal gyrus⁶ and Hippocampus⁵	Inferior longitudinal fasciculus
Precuneus and Superior frontal gyrus	Occipitofrontal fasciculus,⁷
Supramarginal gyrus	Local arcuate⁸

Anatomical Boundaries

The angular gyrus is defined by its anatomical neighbors:

Anteriorly: Supramarginal gyrus.
Superiorly: Intraparietal sulcus.
Posteriorly: Parieto-occipital sulcus.
Inferiorly: It is continuous with the superior and middle temporal gyri, with the angular sulcus merging into the superior temporal sulcus.

Functional Significance

Language Processing

The angular gyrus is critically involved in higher-order language functions, particularly the processing of written language. Norman Geschwind proposed that it acts as a crucial intermediary, translating visual word forms into an internal verbal representation.

Research by V.S. Ramachandran and Edward Hubbard suggested a role in understanding metaphors, though this hypothesis has been subject to debate, with some neuroimaging studies pointing towards other parietal regions for metaphor processing.¹¹¹² Studies also indicate that the left angular gyrus is particularly important for both the production and comprehension of written and spoken language.¹³

Arithmetic and Spatial Cognition

Historically, damage to the angular gyrus has been linked to deficits in arithmetic.¹⁴¹⁵ Neuroimaging studies reveal its involvement in both approximate and exact calculations. Specifically, the left angular gyrus, in conjunction with the inferior frontal gyrus, is associated with retrieving exact arithmetic facts, with greater activation correlating with enhanced calculation abilities.¹⁶¹⁷

Furthermore, the angular gyrus is implicated in spatial cognition, including the ability to discriminate left from right and orient oneself in three-dimensional space. This function is thought to stem from its role in integrating spatial information with conceptual representations and attention allocation.²⁰²¹

Attention and Awareness

The right angular gyrus is particularly associated with directing attention, especially in response to salient stimuli, potentially employing a bottom-up strategy that leverages retrieved memories.¹⁸¹⁹ It also plays a role in self-awareness, monitoring the discrepancy between intended and actual movements, thereby contributing to the sense of self.²⁴

The angular gyrus is a component of the default mode network (DMN), active during internally focused cognitive processes.²²²³ It also contributes to memory retrieval, noting inconsistencies between expectations and outcomes.³

Language: Beyond Words

Reading and Comprehension

The angular gyrus is fundamental for reading and understanding written text. It acts as a critical nexus, integrating visual input with semantic and phonological information stored in other brain regions, particularly Wernicke's area.

Metaphor and Abstract Thought

Theories propose that the angular gyrus is involved in processing abstract concepts and metaphors, potentially by integrating information from different sensory modalities. This capacity may be uniquely developed in humans, contributing to our sophisticated cognitive abilities.¹¹

Numerical Cognition

Calculation and Number Sense

Damage to the angular gyrus frequently results in acalculia, a deficit in mathematical abilities. This region is essential for both performing calculations and possessing a basic sense of number magnitude. Its activation patterns correlate with mathematical proficiency.¹⁷

Spatial Representation of Numbers

The angular gyrus is implicated in the spatial representation of numbers, linking numerical concepts to spatial coordinates. This connection aids in tasks requiring mental manipulation of numbers and understanding numerical relationships.

Attention and Awareness

Directing Focus

The right angular gyrus plays a significant role in directing spatial attention, particularly in orienting towards salient environmental cues. It may also facilitate attention shifts by drawing upon memory retrieval processes.¹⁸

Self-Awareness and Body Schema

This region contributes to self-awareness by monitoring the relationship between intended actions and their outcomes. Discrepancies detected by the angular gyrus can influence our sense of self and body perception. Intriguingly, direct stimulation of the angular gyrus has been shown to induce experiences such as out-of-body sensations or the perception of an unseen presence.²⁵²⁶

Clinical Significance: Gerstmann Syndrome

Manifestations of Damage

Damage to the angular gyrus, typically resulting from stroke or injury, can lead to a specific neurological condition known as Gerstmann syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by a constellation of cognitive deficits affecting language, calculation, and spatial orientation.

Dysgraphia/Agraphia: Impaired ability to write.²⁷²⁸
Dyscalculia/Acalculia: Difficulty with mathematical computations and understanding numbers.²⁷²⁸
Finger Agnosia: Inability to distinguish or identify the fingers on one's hand.²⁷²⁸
Left-Right Disorientation: Confusion regarding left and right sides of the body or space.²⁷²⁸

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References

Farrer C, Frey SH, Van Horn JD, Tunik E, Turk D, Inati S, Grafton ST. The angular gyrus computes action awareness representations. Centre de Neuroscience Cognitive.

Out-of-Body Experience? Your Brain Is to Blame - New York Times

A full list of references for this article are available at the Angular gyrus Wikipedia page

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This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely current.

This is not medical advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider or neurologist for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it due to information obtained from this page.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

Angular Gyrus: The Brain's Integration Hub

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What is the Angular Gyrus? ℹ️

📍 Location and Definition

🔗 Key Role in Cognition

Anatomy and Connections 🕸️

↔️ Neural Pathways

📊 Connections Table

🗺️ Anatomical Boundaries

Functional Significance 💡

🗣️ Language Processing

➕ Arithmetic and Spatial Cognition

🎯 Attention and Awareness

Language: Beyond Words 📖

💬 Reading and Comprehension

🤔 Metaphor and Abstract Thought

Numerical Cognition 🔢

🧮 Calculation and Number Sense

🗺️ Spatial Representation of Numbers

Attention and Awareness 👁️

🧭 Directing Focus

👤 Self-Awareness and Body Schema

Clinical Significance: Gerstmann Syndrome ⚠️

🤕 Manifestations of Damage

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is the Angular Gyrus?

Location and Definition

Key Role in Cognition

Anatomy and Connections

Neural Pathways

Connections Table

Anatomical Boundaries

Functional Significance

Language Processing

Arithmetic and Spatial Cognition

Attention and Awareness

Language: Beyond Words

Reading and Comprehension

Metaphor and Abstract Thought

Numerical Cognition

Calculation and Number Sense

Spatial Representation of Numbers

Attention and Awareness

Directing Focus

Self-Awareness and Body Schema

Clinical Significance: Gerstmann Syndrome

Manifestations of Damage

Teacher's Corner

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References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice