Amygdala
Amygdala
Amygdala (/əˈmɪɡdələ/; plural: amygdalae /əˈmɪɡdəliː/) is a set of almond-shaped nuclei located deep within the temporal lobes of the brain. It is a part of the limbic system and plays a key role in processing emotions, particularly fear and pleasure.
Etymology
The term "amygdala" comes from the Greek word "amygdale" meaning "almond", due to the structure's almond-like shape.
Function
The amygdala is involved in several cognitive functions, including emotion, learning, and memory. It is especially known for its role in the processing of fear-related stimuli and emotional memories. The amygdala is also involved in the modulation of memory consolidation. Following any learning event, the long-term memory for the event is not formed instantaneously. Rather, information regarding the event is slowly assimilated into long-term (potentially lifelong) storage over time, possibly via long-term potentiation.
Related Terms
- Limbic System: The group of brain structures, including the amygdala, involved in emotion, motivation, and emotional association with memory.
- Temporal Lobe: The region of the brain where the amygdala is located.
- Long-term potentiation: A long-lasting strengthening of synapses between nerve cells, thought to be a major cellular mechanism that underlies learning and memory.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amygdala
- Wikipedia's article - Amygdala
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