Autistic brains show differences in a fetal fold linked to social cognition

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journal Cerebral Cortex . The human brain is characterized by its heavily wrinkled outer layer, known as the cerebral cortex. This structure is packed with elevated ridges and deep grooves. Together, these folds function to maximize the sheer amount of neural tissue that can fit inside the cramped space of the human skull. The valleys or grooves pushing deep into the brain tissue are called sulci. Most of the surface area of the cerebral cortex actually sits buried within these hidden grooves. Because the cortex coordinates higher-order mental functions, scientists actively study the shape and location of these folds to better understand human cognition and neurodevelopment. One specific sub-region of this outer layer is the anterior cingulate cortex. This region operates as a central hub for emotional regulation, cognitive control, and social cognition. These represent broad areas...