The IC is divided into:1
- Central nucleus, which is the largest portion
- External cortex
- Dorsal cortex
The IC is involved in processing sound information before it is relayed to higher brain centres, particularly the auditory thalamus (medial geniculate body) and eventually the auditory cortex.1 The IC integrates auditory signals that help in sound localization, which is essential for determining the direction and distance of a sound source.1 This is partly achieved through inputs from the superior olivary complex, which processes binaural (both ears) auditory cues.2 Besides its primary role in hearing, the IC is involved in some non-auditory functions, such as the coordination of eye movements and orienting responses to stimuli (especially in conjunction with the superior colliculus).1
References:
1. Driscoll ME, Tadi P. Neuroanatomy, inferior colliculus. [Updated 2023 Aug]. In: StatPearls [internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554468/.
2. Paul MS, Das JM. Neuroanatomy, superior and inferior olivary nucleus (superior and inferior olivary complex). [Updated 2023 Jul]. In: StatPearls [internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542242/.