Third ventricle
Third Ventricle
The Third Ventricle (/θɜːrd vɛnˈtrɪkəl/) is a midline symmetrical structure within the brain, part of the ventricular system. It is a cavity filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), located between the left and right thalami.
Etymology
The term "ventricle" is derived from the Latin word "ventriculus", meaning "little belly". The number "third" is used because it is the third ventricle in the sequence of CSF flow in the brain.
Anatomy
The third ventricle is a narrow, funnel-shaped cavity. It is bounded by the thalamus and hypothalamus on both sides. The roof is formed by the corpus callosum, and the floor by the hypothalamus. The anterior wall is formed by the lamina terminalis, and the posterior wall by the pineal gland and cerebral aqueduct.
Function
The primary function of the third ventricle, like other ventricles in the brain, is to protect the brain from injury by providing a cushion of CSF. It also helps in the circulation of CSF, which delivers nutrients to the brain and removes waste products.
Related Terms
- Cerebrospinal Fluid: The clear, colorless body fluid found in the brain and spinal cord.
- Thalamus: A large mass of gray matter located in the dorsal part of the diencephalon.
- Hypothalamus: A small region of the brain located below the thalamus, forming the major portion of the ventral region of the diencephalon.
- Corpus Callosum: A broad band of nerve fibers joining the two hemispheres of the brain.
- Pineal Gland: A small endocrine gland in the brain, which produces melatonin, a hormone that affects the modulation of wake/sleep patterns and photoperiodic (seasonal) functions.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Third ventricle
- Wikipedia's article - Third ventricle
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