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Fractal Analysis As A Tool For Studying Specialization In Neuronal Structure: The Study Of The Evolution Of The Primate Cerebral Cortex And Human Intellect

Author

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  • G. N. ELSTON

    (Vision, Touch and Hearing Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences & Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, 4072, Australia)

  • B. ZIETSCH

    (Vision, Touch and Hearing Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences & Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, 4072, Australia)

Abstract

We review recent findings that, using fractal analysis, have demonstrated systematic regional and species differences in the branching complexity of neocortical pyramidal neurons. In particular, attention is focused on how fractal analysis is being applied to the study of specialization in pyramidal cell structure during the evolution of the primate cerebral cortex. These studies reveal variation in pyramidal cell phenotype that cannot be attributed solely to increasing brain volume. Moreover, the results of these studies suggest that the primate cerebral cortex is composed of neurons of different structural complexity. There is growing evidence to suggest that regional and species differences in neuronal structure influence function at both the cellular and circuit levels. These data challenge the prevailing dogma for cortical uniformity.

Suggested Citation

  • G. N. Elston & B. Zietsch, 2005. "Fractal Analysis As A Tool For Studying Specialization In Neuronal Structure: The Study Of The Evolution Of The Primate Cerebral Cortex And Human Intellect," Advances in Complex Systems (ACS), World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., vol. 8(02n03), pages 217-227.
    • Handle: RePEc:wsi:acsxxx:v:08:y:2005:i:02n03:n:s0219525905000476
    DOI: 10.1142/S0219525905000476
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