neurôniosespelho

neurôniosespelho refers to the neural system of mirror neurons, a class of neurons that activate both during execution of an action and during observation of the same action. In humans and other primates, this network is thought to support understanding of others' actions and intentions.

Etymology and usage: The term neurôniosespelho is not standardized in scientific literature; it is a portmanteau of neurônio and espelho (mirror) in Portuguese, used colloquially to denote the mirror neuron system or its processes.

Neuroanatomy: Core components are located in the ventral premotor cortex (including parts of the inferior frontal gyrus) and the inferior parietal lobule, with additional involvement from the superior temporal sulcus and other regions linked to action perception.

Function: The system is thought to facilitate imitation learning, action understanding, and some aspects of social cognition, including attribution of intentions and empathy.

Development and plasticity: Mirror neuron-like activity emerges early in development and is shaped by motor experience and social interaction; plastic changes can occur with training, rehabilitation, or sensory-motor experiences.

Clinical relevance: Research has explored links to autism spectrum disorders, but findings are mixed and causality remains unestablished; the system is also used in rehabilitation, through action-observation therapy to promote motor recovery after stroke.

Research methods and challenges: Evidence comes from functional imaging, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and electrophysiology in animals; translating findings to full cognitive functions such as language remains debated.

See also: Mirror neuron, Neuron, Social neuroscience.