Glossary of Terms for an Anatomy of the Brain
Amygdala - limbic structure involved in many brain functions, including emotion, learning and memory. It is part of a system that processes “reflexive” emotions like fear and anxiety.
Cerebellum - governs movement.
Cingulate gyrus - plays a role in processing conscious emotional experience.
Fornix - an arch-like structure that connects the hippocampus to other parts of the limbic system.
Frontal lobe - helps control skilled muscle movements, mood, planning for the future, setting goals and judging priorities.
Hippocampus - plays a significant role in the formation of long-term memories.
Medulla oblongata - contains centers for the control of vital processes such as heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, and swallowing.
Limbic system - a group of interconnected structures that mediate emotions, learning and memory.
Occipital lobe - helps process visual information.
Parahippacampal gyrus - an important connecting pathway of the limbic system.
Parietal lobe - receives and processes information about temperature, taste, touch, and movement coming from the rest of the body. Reading and arithmetic are also processed in this region.
Pons - contains centers for the control of vital processes, including respiration and cardiovascular functions. It also is involved in the coordination of eye movements and balance.
Temporal lobe - processes hearing, memory and language functions.
Thalamus - a major relay station between the senses and the cortex (the outer layer of the brain consisting of the parietal, occipital, frontal and temporal lobes).
