Superior colliculus

The Superior colliculus (/sʊˈpɪəriər kɒˈlɪkjʊləs/; from Latin, colliculus meaning "small hill") is a paired structure of the mammalian brain. It is part of the midbrain, also known as the mesencephalon, and is involved in visual processing and eye movement.

Etymology

The term superior colliculus is derived from Latin, where superior means "higher" and colliculus means "small hill". This is in reference to the structure's position in the midbrain and its rounded shape.

Function

The superior colliculus is primarily involved in the processing of visual information. It receives direct input from the retina and indirect input from the cortex, and is responsible for initiating and controlling saccadic eye movements. These are rapid, jerky movements of the eye that allow it to quickly fixate on different points in the visual field.

In addition to its role in vision, the superior colliculus also integrates information from other sensory systems, such as the auditory system and somatosensory system, to help orient the body in space.

Related Terms

Midbrain: The part of the brain where the superior colliculus is located.
Retina: The part of the eye that sends visual information to the superior colliculus.
Saccadic eye movements: Rapid eye movements controlled by the superior colliculus.
Auditory system: One of the sensory systems that the superior colliculus integrates information from.
Somatosensory system: Another sensory system that the superior colliculus integrates information from.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Superior colliculus
Wikipedia's article - Superior colliculus

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Superior colliculus