THALAMUS
Thalamus is a midline paired symmetrical structure within the brains of vertebrates, including humans. It is situated
between the cerebral cortex and midbrain. The thalamus surrounds the third ventricle. The thalamus is the largest
structure in the diencephalon. The diencephalon includes also the dorsally located Epithalamus and the Perithalamus
.The thalamus comprises a system of lamellae made up of myelinated fibres separating different thalamic subparts.
The thalamus has multiple functions.
1. It is generally believed to act as a relay between a variety of Sub cortical areas and the cerebral cortex.
2. The thalamus is believed to both process sensory information as well as relaying it.
3. The medial Geniculate nucleus acts as a key auditory relay between the inferior Colliculus of the midbrain and
the primary auditory cortex.
4. The ventral posterior nucleus is a key somatosensory relay, which sends touch and Proprioceptive information
to the primary somatosensory cortex.
5. The thalamus also plays an important role in regulating states of sleep and wakefulness.
6.
The thalamus plays a major role in regulating arousal, the level of awareness, and activity. Damage to the
thalamus can lead to permanent coma.