PARTS OF THE BRAIN

FOREBRAIN – Cerebrum: largest part of the brain

DIENCEPHALON – Thalamus: sensory relay
station
- This is where sensory impulses are being
processed excluding olfactory sensation
o Below the thalamus – hypothalamus
- In connection with pituitary gland and has
endocrine functions that control the secretion of
the pituitary gland
- A center for thirsts and satiety
o Pea size in the thalamus – epithalamus
- Part of pineal gland that secretes melatonin
*melatonin – hormone that modulate sleep; can only be
secreted when its dark or in dim environment
o Subthalamus – part of the basal ganglia
(nucleus within the brain that controls the
quality of movement)
- It controls the quality of movement
Pituitary gland – closely associated with
hypothalamus
o Endocrine glands that produce hormones
and secretions
o Infundibulum – stalk-like connection of
hypothalamus to pituitary gland
BRAIN STEM
- Composed of the midbrain, pons and medulla
Midbrain
- Most rostral part of the brainstem
- Smallest part of the brain
- Contains nuclei for visual and auditory pathways
Pons
- Regulation of midbrain
- Has nuclei for regulation of breathing
- “Breathing centers”
Medulla
- Serves as the origin for CN IX – XII
- Has nuclei for control of breathing and
cardiovascular centers
Hindbrain – cerebellum (little brain)
- For coordination and balance

CEREBRUM
- Largest part of the brain
- Higher level of thinking skills happens
Surface markings