A stereotaxic atlas of the brain of the cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis)

Abstract

Outline drawings of representative frontal sections of the Macaca fascicularis brain are presented in stereotaxic coordinates. The levels extend from the rostral tip of the neostriatum to the posterior end of the deep cerebellar nuclei. The illustrations are based on the photographs of unstained frozen sections of three formalin-fixed brains in which stainless steel needles were inserted to mark the horizontal zero and several anteroposterior positions. The sections were not stained in order to prevent shrinkage. Stereotaxic measurements were taken in situ of the highest points on the cortical surface, the position of the central and lunate sulcus, and of certain landmarks at the base of the cranium in a large number of monkeys. These data along with brain dimensions and the weight of animals are displayed in tables to indicate individual variations and to aid investigators in determining the best stereotaxic coordinates for a given structure. It is recommended that the cortical point of entry for an electrode or needle be routinely noted and be compared to the parameters in the atlas to compensate for deviations in the horizontal plane.