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Entorhinal cortexThe entorhinal cortex (EC) is an important memorycenter in the brain. The EC forms the main input to the hippocampusand is responsible for the pre-processing of the input signals. In the eyeblink reflex, the association of impulses from the eyeand the earoccurs in the entorhinal cortex. The EC-hippocampus systemplays an important role in memory consolidationand memory optimizationin sleep. AnatomyIn rodents EC is located at the caudalend of the temporal lobeand is usually divided into medialand lateralregions (though more recent research indicates that it is more accurate to divide it into three bands). A distinguishing characteristic of EC is the lack of cell bodies where layer IV should be; this layer is called the lamina dissecans. Inputs and outputsThe superficial layers, layers II and III, of EC project to the dentate gyrusand hippocampus: layer II primarily projects to dentate gyrusand hippocampal region CA3; layer III primarily projects to hippocampal region CA1 and the subiculum. These layers receive input from other cortical areas, especially associational, perirhinal, and parahippocampal cortices, as well as prefrontal cortex. EC as a whole, therefore, receives highly processed input from every sensory modality, as well as input relating to ongoing cognitive processes, though it should be stressed that, within EC, this information remains at least partially segregated. The deep layers, especially layer V, receive one of the three main outputs of the hippocampus, and, in turn, reciprocate connections from other cortical areas that project to superficial EC. Entorhinal cortex is one of the first areas to be affected in Alzheimer's Disease. External links
Categories: Medicine stubs| Anatomy| Limbic system| Cerebrum
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