Subcortical

Subcortical structures
Diagram of subcortical structures in the human brain
Details
System	Nervous system
Artery	Various
Vein	Various
Identifiers
Latin	Subcorticalia
TA98
TH	{{#property:P1694}}
TE	{{#property:P1693}}
FMA	{{#property:P1402}}
Anatomical terminology

The subcortical structures of the brain are a group of diverse and complex regions located beneath the cerebral cortex. These structures are involved in a variety of functions, including emotion, memory, and the regulation of autonomic processes. The subcortical regions are crucial for the integration of sensory and motor information and play a significant role in the coordination of movement and behavior.

Anatomy

The subcortical structures include several key components:

Basal Ganglia

The basal ganglia are a group of nuclei that are primarily involved in the control of voluntary motor movements, procedural learning, and routine behaviors or "habits." The basal ganglia include the caudate nucleus, putamen, and globus pallidus.

Thalamus

The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex. It is involved in the regulation of consciousness, sleep, and alertness.

Hypothalamus

The hypothalamus is responsible for the regulation of various autonomic processes, including temperature control, hunger, thirst, and circadian rhythms. It also plays a role in the endocrine system by controlling the pituitary gland.

Amygdala

The amygdala is involved in the processing of emotions such as fear, anger, and pleasure. It is also important for the formation of emotional memories.

Hippocampus

The hippocampus is crucial for the formation of new memories and is also associated with learning and emotions.

Function

Subcortical structures are involved in a wide range of functions:

• Motor Control: The basal ganglia are essential for the initiation and smooth execution of voluntary movements.
• Sensory Processing: The thalamus processes and relays sensory information to the appropriate areas of the cerebral cortex.
• Emotional Regulation: The amygdala and hippocampus are key players in the processing and regulation of emotions and memory.
• Homeostasis: The hypothalamus maintains homeostasis by regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction in subcortical structures can lead to various neurological and psychiatric disorders. For example:

• Parkinson's Disease: A disorder of the basal ganglia characterized by tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.
• Huntington's Disease: A genetic disorder affecting the basal ganglia, leading to motor dysfunction and cognitive decline.
• Thalamic Stroke: Can result in sensory deficits and altered consciousness.
• Korsakoff's Syndrome: A condition associated with damage to the thalamus and hypothalamus, often due to chronic alcoholism, leading to memory problems.

Also see

• Cerebral cortex
• Limbic system
• Neuroanatomy
• Brainstem