Glossary of Terms for an Anatomy of the Brain

Amygdala – limbic structure involved in many brain functions, including emotion, learning and memory. It is part of a system that processes "reflexive" emotions like fear and anxiety.

Cerebellum – governs movement.

Cingulate gyrus – plays a role in processing conscious emotional experience.

Fornix – an arch-like structure that connects the hippocampus to other parts of the limbic system.

Frontal lobe – helps control skilled muscle movements, mood, planning for the future, setting goals and judging priorities.

Hippocampus – plays a significant role in the formation of long-term memories.

Medulla oblongata – contains centers for the control of vital processes such as heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, and swallowing.

Limbic system – a group of interconnected structures that mediate emotions, learning and memory.

Occipital lobe – helps process visual information.

Parahippocampal gyrus – an important connecting pathway of the limbic system.

Parietal lobe – receives and processes information about temperature, taste, touch, and movement coming from the rest of the body. Reading and arithmetic are also processed in this region.

Pons – contains centers for the control of vital processes, including respiration and cardiovascular functions. It also is involved in the coordination of eye movements and balance.

Temporal lobe – processes hearing, memory and language functions.

Thalamus – a major relay station between the senses and the cortex (the outer layer of the brain consisting of the parietal, occipital, frontal and temporal lobes).

Source: AHAF (American Health Assistance Foundation)