Question

Anatomy Mini-Tutorial: the Limbic System

Answer 1

\({\bf{Overview:}}\)
- the limbic system is based on function rather than structure
- includes parts of the cerebrum, diancephalon, mesencephalon
- controls emotions, behaviors associated w/ emotions, memory storage + retrieval, and connects the conscious processes of the cerebral cortex with autonomic processes

Answer 2

\({\bf{Components:}}\)
> amygdaloid body: integration between limbic system + cerebrum + sensory systems

> limbic lobe:
- cingulate gyrus, dentate gyrus, parahippocampal gyrus
- hippocampus is below the dentate and parahippocampal

> fornix: connects hippocampus and hypothalamus
- often end in mammillary bodies that control motions associated with eating, like chewing

> anterior nucleus: visceral sensory information from hypothalamus to cingulate gyrus
> reticular formation: network of brainstem nuclei that increase alertness or excitement

Answer 3

Adapted from Human Anatomy, Martini, et. al. 9th edition