How does connectivity between cortical areas depend on brain size? Implications for efficient computation.
A formula for an average connectivity between cortical areas in mammals is derived. Based on comparative neuroanatomical data, it is found, surprisingly, that this connectivity is either only weakly dependent or independent of brain size. It is discussed how this formula can be used to estimate the average length of axons in white matter. Other allometric relations, such as cortical patches and area sizes vs. brain size, are also provided. Finally, some functional implications, with an emphasis on efficient cortical computation, are discussed as well.
Karbowski
Jan
J
Sloan-Swartz Center for Theoretical Neurobiology, Division of Biology 216-76, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA. jkarb@cns.caltech.edu
D000818:Animals; D001369:Axons / Q000502:physiology; D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D002452:Cell Count; D002540:Cerebral Cortex / Q000166:cytology*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009434:Neural Pathways / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D009929:Organ Size; D013569:Synapses / Q000502:physiology