Prefrontal Cortex/Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex is the section of the brain’s frontal lobe considered to be the “conductor” or “executive” of the brain. It mediates higher-order cortical processes. The Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) is contained within the prefrontal cortex and mediates executive functions. Damage to this area results in dysexecutive syndrome, with impaired working memory, sustained attention, mental flexibility, problem-solving, planning, and self-monitoring. The DLPFC also communicates closely with the structures of the limbic system, such as the hippocampus, to retrieve and consolidate memories.