The third branch of the superior longitudinal system

One of the major associative fiber pathways in the brain is the superior longitudinal system. This review discusses the current knowledge gained from studies on the third branch of the superior longitudinal system regarding its anatomy, functional role in healthy individuals, results from lesion-symptom mapping studies and intraoperative electrostimulation studies. The results of these studies clearly indicate that the third branch of the superior longitudinal system is a distinct pathway, as seen both from a functional and anatomical perspective. The third branch of the superior longitudinal system should be distinguished from the long segment of the arcuate fasciculus, that courses along its trajectory but seems implicated in different functions. Moreover, these studies also provide substantial evidence that the right and left third branch of the superior longitudinal system have different functional roles. Finally, a hypothesis for an integrated anatomo-functional model is proposed, that describes three subcomponents of the third branch of the superior longitudinal system.