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Functions of Brain
Summary of Functions of Major Parts of the Brain
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Contain the cerebral cortex, which participates in perception, the generation of skilled movements, reasoning, learning, and memory. | Cerebral hemisphere (forebrain) |
| Contain subcortical nuclei, including those that participate in coordination of skeletal muscle activity | Cerebral hemisphere (forebrain) |
| Contain interconnecting fiber pathways | Cerebral hemisphere (forebrain) |
| Acts as a synaptic relay station for sensory pathways on their way to the cerebral cortex | Thalamus (forebrain) |
| Participates in control of skeletal muscle coordination | Thalamus (forebrain) |
| Plays a key role in awareness | Thalamus (forebrain) |
| Regulates anterior pituitary gland function | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Regulates water balance | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Participates in regulation of autonomic nervous system | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Regulates eating and drinking behavior | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Regulates reproductive system | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Reinforces certain behaviors | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Generates and regulates circadian rhythms | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Regulates body temp | Hypothalamus (forebrain) |
| Coordinates movements, including those for posture and balance | Cerebellum |
| Contains the reticular formation and its various integrating centers, including those for cardiovascular and respiratory activity | Brainstem |
| Contains nuclei for cranial nerves III - XII | Brainstem |