Neocortical Neurogenesis in Development and Evolution

Book excerpt: Understanding the development and evolution of the mammalian neocortex The development of the mammalian brain, including the human brain, is inextricably linked with its evolution. Of particular interest is the development of the neocortex, the youngest part of the cerebral cortex in evolutionary terms, and the seat of such vital functions as sensory perception, generation of motor commands, and higher-order cognition. The process of neurogenesis is crucial to the formation and function of the neocortex, but this process is complex, based on species-specific adaptations of old and acquired new traits that subserve specific functions introduced during mammalian evolution. Neocortical Neurogenesis in Development and Evolution provides a groundbreaking and comprehensive overview of neurogenesis in the developing neocortex and its evolutionary implications. It covers the generation of neurons and their migration to their functional positions, neural patterning, cortical folding, and variations and malformations of cortical development. Readers will find: A comprehensive review of the evolution and development of the neocortex in mammals – the part of our brain involved in the higher cognitive functions A multitude of subject disciplines ranging from neuroscience, molecular biology, genetics, developmental biology, evolutionary biology and medicine to provide a holistic understanding of the evolutionary youngest part of the cerebral cortex Coverage of neurogenesis in the developing neocortex and how this contributes to our understanding of the evolutionary implications Neocortical Neurogenesis in Development and Evolution is essential for researchers and postgraduates in neuroscience, developmental biology, evolutionary biology, and medical research.