The role of the inferior frontal junction area in cognitive control

Abstract

Cognitive control processes refer to our ability to coordinate thoughts and actions in accordance with internal goals. In the fronto-lateral cortex such processes have been primarily related to mid-dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (mid-DLPFC). However, recent brain-imaging and meta-analytic studies suggest that a region located more posterior in the fronto-lateral cortex plays a pivotal role in cognitive control as well. This region has been termed the inferior frontal junction area and can be functionally and structurally distinguished from mid-DLPFC.