Prefrontal Cortex - neuronal networks subserving working memory: The work of Patricia Goldman-Rakic

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the most evolved area of the primate brain, subserving our highest order cognitive abilities. The research of Patricia Goldman-Rakic showed that parallel sensory processing streams continue into the PFC, where they interact through extensive interconnections. Thus, there are domains for sensory space more dorsally in PFC, and domains for sensory features more ventrally. The projections are reciprocal,; the PFC projects back to sensory cortices to regulate provide “top-down” control.