Septal area

Septal area

The Septal area (also known as the Septal region or Septum) is a subcortical component of the brain, located in the basal forebrain. It is composed of structures that play a significant role in the regulation of emotion, memory, and behavior. The septal area is named for its proximity to the septum pellucidum, a thin membrane that separates the lateral ventricles of the brain.

Etymology

The term "septal" is derived from the Latin word "septum," which means "a partition or dividing structure." The septal area is named for its location near the septum pellucidum, a thin membrane that separates the lateral ventricles in the brain.

Anatomy

The septal area is located in the basal forebrain, anterior to the thalamus and just above the preoptic area. It is composed of several structures, including the lateral septal nuclei, medial septal nuclei, and the septohypothalamic nucleus. These structures are interconnected with various other regions of the brain, including the hippocampus, amygdala, and hypothalamus.

Function

The septal area plays a crucial role in the regulation of emotion, memory, and behavior. It is involved in the processing of reward and punishment, and it influences social behavior, sexual behavior, and aggression. The septal area also plays a role in the regulation of autonomic functions, such as heart rate and blood pressure, through its connections with the hypothalamus.

Clinical significance

Damage to the septal area can result in a variety of neurological and psychiatric symptoms, including memory impairment, emotional instability, and changes in sexual behavior. It has been implicated in several neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and depression.

See also

• Basal forebrain
• Septum pellucidum
• Lateral ventricles

References

Septal area Resources
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