Paleoencephalon (Noun)
Meaning
The more primitive parts of the brain phylogenetically; most structures other than the cerebral cortex.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The paleoencephalon is responsible for controlling basic functions such as hunger, thirst, and emotions.
- Studies have shown that damage to the paleoencephalon can result in significant changes to an individual's emotional state.
- The paleoencephalon is thought to have evolved early in the history of vertebrates, and is present in some form in all vertebrate brains.
- In humans, the paleoencephalon includes structures such as the hypothalamus and the limbic system.
- The paleoencephalon plays a critical role in the formation and storage of emotional memories, making it a key component of emotional regulation.