Pallium (neuroanatomy)

Pallium is a layer of grey matter in the brain that, in humans, is known as the cerebral cortex. The pallium is involved in multiple complex behaviors, including learning and memory. In mammals, it is divided into neopallium, also known as isocortex, and allocortex.

Structure

The pallium is a layer of gray matter that lies on the surface of the cerebrum. It is divided into two main parts: the larger neopallium (or isocortex) and the smaller allocortex. The neopallium makes up the majority of the cerebral cortex and is involved in higher cognitive functions. The allocortex is involved in olfaction and the regulation of behavior and emotions.

Function

The pallium is involved in a variety of complex behaviors. It plays a crucial role in learning and memory, and is also involved in the processing of sensory information and the control of motor functions. The neopallium, in particular, is associated with higher cognitive functions such as reasoning, language, and conscious thought.

Clinical significance

Damage to the pallium can result in a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders. For example, damage to certain areas of the neopallium can result in cognitive deficits, such as those seen in Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Similarly, damage to the allocortex can result in changes in behavior and emotion, such as those seen in schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.

See also

• Cerebral cortex
• Grey matter
• Neocortex
• Allocortex