How do cortical thickness, stiffness, and growth play a role in the folding process of the brain?

Dr. Rishabh Pathak

Cortical thickness, stiffness, and growth are key factors that play crucial roles in the folding process of the brain. Here is an explanation of how each of these factors influences cortical folding:


1.  Cortical Thickness: The thickness of the cortex, the outer layer of the brain, directly influences the folding patterns of the brain surface. Thicker cortices tend to have longer intersulcal distances and may even suppress the formation of folds entirely. On the other hand, thinner cortices are associated with increased gyrification and the formation of more convoluted brain surfaces with smaller folds. Variations in cortical thickness can lead to different folding patterns and impact the overall morphology of the brain.


2.   Stiffness: The stiffness of the cortical tissue compared to the subcortical tissue also plays a significant role in cortical folding. The stiffness ratio between the cortex and subcortex influences the surface morphology of the brain. While the cortex is expected to be denser and have a higher mechanical stiffness due to the presence of neuronal cell bodies and synapses, the actual stiffness difference between the cortex and subcortex is relatively small. This stiffness ratio can affect the folding patterns, but it is not the sole driving force behind cortical folding.


3. Growth: Growth-induced processes in the brain, such as differential growth between the cortex and subcortex, can lead to the development of cortical folds. Abnormal growth rates can result in different behaviors of the brain tissue. Slow cortical growth can lead to a more fluid-like behavior in the subcortex, potentially suppressing folding, while fast cortical growth can create elastic solid-like behavior, provoking the formation of secondary folds. The growth ratio between the cortex and subcortex is a critical parameter in controlling irregular surface morphologies and secondary folding in the brain.


In summary, cortical thickness, stiffness, and growth are interconnected factors that influence the folding process of the brain. Understanding how these parameters interact and affect brain development is essential for unraveling the mechanisms behind cortical folding and associated neurological conditions.

 

Having a strong interest in research, I began my work as a physiotherapist and went on to earn a master's degree in the field, specializing in neurology. I also finished a few post-graduation diplomas in between and with persistence. Research has always been a passion of mine, both for the advancement of my career and my personal life. A major factor in reaching my goals is education. Although my first bachelor's thesis was in the innovation area, I had been exposed to research work even in my informal school days. I always like working on creative initiatives and taking an interest in other people's experiences. The saying, "Healthy criticism is a way to learn more and more about your flaws to make them rectified," is true, in my opinion. In this way, we may hone our abilities and create a growth-oriented vision for both our personal and professional career pathways. I am thus constantly willing to learn and advance in my work. Additionally, I think that "it is in our hands to terminate our lives with a brand-new ending if we are unable to originate our lives with a brand-new start."

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