Neuroscience: Key Brain Structures and Their Functions

Cerebral Cortex

Extensive outer layer of the forebrain which governs higher brain functions such as thinking, learning, and consciousness.

Thalamus

Relays information between lower and higher brain centers.

Hypothalamus

Governs eating, drinking, and sex; plays a role in emotion and stress.

Reticular Formation

Diffuse collection of neurons involved in arousal and stereotyped patterns such as walking.

Medulla

Governs breathing and reflexes.

Cerebellum

Rounded structure involved in motor coordination.

Pons

Governs sleep and arousal.

Hippocampus

Involved in memory.

Amygdala

Involved in fear and the discrimination of objects necessary for organism survival.