The precentral area (PCO) or precentral insula, also known as the precentral gyrus, is a part of the cerebral cortex located in the frontal lobe of the brain. It is one of the largest areas of the cerebral cortex and plays an important role in the processing of sensory information, especially in the processing of visual information.
The precentral region is located just anterior to the central sulcus and is separated from the prefrontal cortex by the anterior commissure. It is made up of many small nerve cells called neurons, which are connected by synaptic connections.
One of the main functions of the precentral area is the processing of visual information. Neurons in this area respond to light and movement, allowing us to see and move. In addition, the precentral region is also involved in processing tactile and proprioceptive signals associated with the sense of body position in space.
When the precentral region is damaged, various neurological disorders occur, including paralysis of an arm or leg, impaired vision, coordination of movements, and other symptoms. In medical practice, studying the precentral region can help in the diagnosis and treatment of various neurological diseases such as stroke, traumatic brain injury or multiple sclerosis.
Overall, the precentral region is an important part of our brain and plays a key role in our ability to see, move and sense the world around us. Understanding its functions and possible disruptions can help improve our ability to adapt and recover from various illnesses and injuries.