Brain Anatomy 101: Brodmann area 5

1. Location

Brodmann area 5 is located in the parietal lobe of the brain, mainly in the superior parietal lobule. It lies anterior to Brodmann area 7 and posterior to the primary somatosensory cortex (areas 1, 2, and 3).

2. Function

Brodmann area 5 is part of the somatosensory association cortex. While the primary somatosensory cortex (areas 1, 2, and 3) is responsible for the initial processing of tactile and proprioceptive information (sensations related to touch and body position), Brodmann area 5 integrates this sensory input and links it to prior experiences. This supports:

• Understanding complex sensory information

• Forming coherent sensory perceptions

• Guiding complex motor actions based on sensory input

3. Role in Movement

Brodmann area 5 plays a crucial role in planning and executing movements. It integrates sensory input to build an accurate understanding of the body’s position in space, enabling effective interaction with the environment. For example, reaching for an object requires precise awareness of the object’s location relative to the body, and Brodmann area 5 contributes to this process.

4. Connections with Other Regions

Brodmann area 5 is extensively connected with other brain regions. It receives input from the primary somatosensory cortex and sends projections to the premotor cortex, the primary motor cortex, and other association areas. This network supports the integration of sensory and motor information.

Damage or lesions in this area can lead to conditions such as:

• Apraxia: Difficulty performing purposeful movements, not due to weakness or lack of understanding, but because the brain struggles to plan the movement

• Agnosia: Difficulty recognizing familiar objects by touch, despite intact sensory function

• Contralateral neglect syndrome: Patients may ignore one side of their visual field, typically the left side following damage to the right parietal lobe