Mini-columns
Mini-columns
- Description
Mini-columns are thought to be a fundamental element of cortical information processing. 1They have been evolutionarily conserved in all mammalian species and are generally adapted according to specific functional requirements. At the core and periphery of the minicolumn are combinations of GABAergic interneurons which modulate pyramidal cell inputs and outputs. 2
Changes in mini-columns may explain deficits in complex information processing, such as that which is employed in executive functioning.1 In particular, smaller minicolumns increases the distance between neighboring neurons and thus can reduce functional connectivity.2
Mini-columns and ASD
Minicolumns in those with autism are smaller and more numerous.
Imaging data suggest that autism is the result of a developmental lesion that affects brain growth. Other studies3,4 have provided evidence that minicolumn abnormalities are not an effect of mental retardation. it is hypothesized that the increase in minicolumns is a result of increased brain growth relative to the body (encephalization). Smaller minicolumns might reflect increased processing complexity.
Concerns
Minicolumn measurements require a special expertise and as a result, few studies have been done. In addition, sample sizes have been small.
Citations
1. Geschwind DH. Advances in autism. Annu Rev Med. 2009;60:367-80. PMID 19630577
2. Casanova MF et. al. Minicolumnar abnormalities in autism.Acta Neuropathol. 2006 Sep;112(3):287-303 PMID 16819561
