gehirnfurchen

Gehirnfurchen, also known as sulci cerebri, are the grooves or indentations on the surface of the cerebral cortex. These furrows are a prominent feature of the mammalian brain, particularly in humans, and play a crucial role in increasing the surface area of the cerebral cortex. This expansion allows for a greater number of neurons to be packed into the skull, which is associated with higher cognitive functions. The deeper and more numerous the gyri (the ridges between the sulci), the more complex the brain's processing capabilities are generally considered to be.

The pattern of gehirnfurchen is largely consistent across individuals, although subtle variations exist. These patterns are used to define distinct lobes of the cerebral cortex, such as the frontal lobe, parietal lobe, temporal lobe, and occipital lobe. Key sulci, like the central sulcus and the lateral sulcus (Sylvian fissure), serve as important anatomical landmarks for neurologists and neurosurgeons. The depth and shape of these furrows are influenced by genetic factors and developmental processes.

The formation of gehirnfurchen begins during embryonic development and continues throughout fetal development. This process of cortical folding, or gyrification, is thought to be driven by a combination of genetic programs and physical forces within the developing brain. Disruptions in this folding process can lead to various neurological conditions.