Subcallosal gyrus

Part of the brain located in the limbic system

Subcallosal gyrus

The subcallosal gyrus is a region of the brain located in the limbic system, which is involved in various functions including emotion, behavior, and long-term memory. It is situated beneath the corpus callosum, a thick band of nerve fibers that connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres.

Diagram of the brain showing the location of the subcallosal gyrus.

Anatomy

The subcallosal gyrus is part of the cingulate cortex, which is a component of the limbic system. It is located anterior to the parahippocampal gyrus and inferior to the cingulate gyrus. The subcallosal gyrus is continuous with the paraterminal gyrus and is bordered by the septal area.

Function

The subcallosal gyrus plays a role in the regulation of emotional responses. It is involved in the processing of emotions and has been implicated in mood disorders such as depression. The subcallosal gyrus is thought to be part of a network that includes the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex, which together contribute to emotional regulation and decision-making.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the subcallosal gyrus have been associated with various psychiatric conditions. For instance, changes in the volume and activity of this region have been observed in patients with major depressive disorder. It is also a target for deep brain stimulation in treatment-resistant depression, where electrical impulses are used to modulate the activity of this brain region.

Related pages

• Limbic system
• Cingulate cortex
• Corpus callosum
• Parahippocampal gyrus
• Mood disorder