A<unk>  is a vertical column through the cortical layers of the brain. Neurons within the microcolumn "receive common inputs, have common outputs, are interconnected, and may well constitute a fundamental computational unit of the cerebral cortex".<unk> s comprise perhaps 80–120 neurons, except in the primate primary visual cortex (V1), where there are typically more than twice the number. There are about 2×108<unk> s in humans. From calculations, the diameter of a<unk>  is about 28–40 μm.<unk> s grow from progenitor cells within the embryo and contain neurons within multiple layers (2–6) of the cortex. Many sources support the existence of<unk> s, especially Mountcastle, with strong evidence reviewed by Buxhoeveden and Casanova who conclude "... the<unk>  must be considered a strong model for cortical organization" and " the most basic and consistent template by which the neocortex organizes its neurones, pathways, and intrinsic circuits".<unk> s can also be called cortical microcolumns. Cells in 50 μm<unk>  all have the same receptive field; adjacent<unk> s may have different fields.
Cortical minicolumn
Barrel cortex
Sensory cortex
Neurosphere
Cortical homunculus
Neuronal ensemble
Proisocortex
Growth cone