Prefrontal Cortex Governs Normalcy and Psychiatric Illness: Neuroimaging Evidence

Recent studies have offered sound evidence to suggest that prefrontal cortex (PFX) has governing influence in depression, remission and in antidepressant strategies. Studies have also suggested that the mediating influence of prefrontal cortex in depression and remission seem to be independent of molecular and regional brain dysfunctions contributory to depression [1]. A recent study also hypothesized the governing influence of prefrontal cortex based upon biology, phylogeny and clinical observations but did not offer experimental or extensive neuro imaging evidence. Compelling data suggest higher mental functions, executive function, awareness planning and strategic thinking are the domain of Brodman areas 8, 9, 10, 42, 46 or prefrontal cortex. Some evidence has also been offered to suggest the mediating influence of prefrontal cortex in great many psychiatric disorders [2]. This paper will investigate whether prefrontal cortex governing influence in depression and remission may also be true for other psychiatric disorders supported by neuroimaging studies.