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Structural uniformity of neocortex, revisited.

ABSTRACT: The number of neurons under a square millimeter of cortical surface has been reported to be the same across five cortical areas and five species [Rockel et al. (1980) Brain 103(2):221-244] despite differences in cortical thickness between the areas. Although the accuracy of this result has been the subject of sharp debate since its publication approximately 30 y ago, the experiments of Rockel et al. have never been directly replicated with modern stereological methods. We have replicated these experiments and confirm the accuracy of the original report. In addition, we have observed that the number of glial cells under a square millimeter of cortical surface depends on cortical thickness, but not on cortical area or species.

SUBMITTER: Carlo CN

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3557031 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Structural uniformity of neocortex, revisited.

Carlo C Nikoosh CN Stevens Charles F CF

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 20130107 4

The number of neurons under a square millimeter of cortical surface has been reported to be the same across five cortical areas and five species [Rockel et al. (1980) Brain 103(2):221-244] despite differences in cortical thickness between the areas. Although the accuracy of this result has been the subject of sharp debate since its publication approximately 30 y ago, the experiments of Rockel et al. have never been directly replicated with modern stereological methods. We have replicated these e ...[more]

PMID: 23297199

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