Secondary somatosensory cortex

Definition

The secondary somatosensory cortex (S2) is an area of the brain that processes tactile information received from the primary somatosensory cortex. It plays a crucial role in integrating sensory inputs and is involved in higher-order functions such as sensory perception, spatial awareness, and the interpretation of touch and pain sensations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The secondary somatosensory cortex is located in the parietal lobe, adjacent to the primary somatosensory cortex, and receives input primarily from S1.
2. S2 is involved in more complex processing of tactile information, such as recognizing shapes or textures based on touch alone.
3. The secondary somatosensory cortex also has connections with other brain regions, allowing it to integrate sensory information with emotional responses and memory.
4. Damage to S2 can lead to deficits in spatial awareness and the ability to perceive or interpret tactile stimuli effectively.
5. Research has shown that S2 plays a role in the perception of pain and can modulate how pain is experienced based on prior experiences and context.

Review Questions

• How does the secondary somatosensory cortex interact with the primary somatosensory cortex in processing tactile information?
  • The secondary somatosensory cortex receives input from the primary somatosensory cortex, allowing it to build on the basic sensory information processed in S1. While S1 is responsible for detecting and localizing touch sensations, S2 enhances this information by integrating it with context and past experiences. This interaction enables more complex perceptions of touch, including recognizing textures and shapes.
• Discuss the significance of the secondary somatosensory cortex in terms of its role in integrating sensory information with emotional responses.
  • The secondary somatosensory cortex is significant because it not only processes tactile sensations but also integrates these sensations with emotional responses. This integration helps shape how we perceive and react to touch based on previous experiences. For example, a gentle touch may be pleasant if associated with a loved one but could trigger discomfort if related to a painful memory. Such connections emphasize the role of S2 in enhancing our understanding of sensory experiences.
• Evaluate how damage to the secondary somatosensory cortex could affect a person's ability to interact with their environment.
  • Damage to the secondary somatosensory cortex can severely disrupt a person's ability to interact with their environment due to impaired spatial awareness and tactile perception. Individuals may struggle to recognize objects by touch or may misinterpret sensory stimuli, leading to difficulties in daily tasks such as identifying items or feeling textures. This impairment highlights S2's essential function in not just basic sensation but also in integrating sensory inputs for meaningful interactions with the world around us.

Related terms

primary somatosensory cortex: The primary somatosensory cortex (S1) is the initial cortical area that processes sensory input from the body's receptors, specifically for touch, temperature, pain, and proprioception.

thalamus: The thalamus is a key relay station in the brain that processes and transmits sensory information to the appropriate cortical areas, including the somatosensory cortices.

somatosensory pathways: Somatosensory pathways are neural routes that transmit sensory information from peripheral receptors through the spinal cord and brainstem to the somatosensory cortices.