Limbic system

Limbic System

The Limbic System is a complex set of brain structures located on both sides of the thalamus, right under the cerebrum. It is not a separate system, but a collection of structures from the telencephalon, diencephalon, and mesencephalon. It supports a variety of functions including emotion, behavior, motivation, long-term memory, and olfaction.

Anatomy

The limbic system includes the amygdala, hippocampus, thalamus, hypothalamus, basal ganglia, and cingulate gyrus. The amygdala is the emotion center of the brain, while the hippocampus plays an essential role in the formation of new memories about past experiences.

Function

The limbic system operates by influencing the endocrine system and the autonomic nervous system. It is highly interconnected with the nucleus accumbens, the brain's pleasure center, which plays a role in sexual arousal and the "high" derived from certain recreational drugs.

Clinical significance

Damage to the limbic system can cause various medical conditions. For example, damage to the hippocampus can result in memory loss, while damage to the amygdala can result in uncontrollable emotions.

See also

• Neuroscience
• Neuroanatomy
• Neurophysiology

References

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External links

• Britannica: Limbic System

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