Brain – Medial Section

The **thalamus** functions as a sensory relay for the brain. All sensory information, except for smell, is routed through the thalamus before being directed to specific brain areas for processing. The **hippocampus** is an essential structure for learning and memory formation. The **amygdala** is involved in processing our experiences of emotions and associating emotional significance with memories. The **hypothalamus** regulates several homeostatic processes, including body temperature, appetite and blood pressure. The **midbrain** contains structures located deep within the brain, between the forebrain and the hindbrain. The **reticular formation** is centered in the midbrain but extends into both the forebrain and hindbrain. This structure is important for regulating the sleep/wake cycle, arousal, alertness and motor activity. The **hindbrain** is positioned at the back of the head, resembling an extension of the spinal cord. It contains the medulla, pons and cerebellum. The medulla manages autonomic processes, such as breathing, blood pressure and heart rate. The **pons** (Latin for "bridge") serves as a connection between the brain and spinal cord and is involved in regulating brain activity during sleep. The **cerebellum** (Latin for "little brain") receives input from muscles, tendons, joints and ear structures to control balance, coordination, movement and motor skills. It is also thought to play a role in processing certain types of memories. *LICENSES AND ATTRIBUTIONS CC licensed content, Shared previously, The Brain and Spinal Cord, Authored by: OpenStax College. License: CC BY: Attribution. License Terms: Download for free at:http://cnx.org/contents/_Io4zP0c@7/The-Brain-and-Spinal-Cord*