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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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.

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Britannica: Limbic System

Limbic system Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.