THALAMUS AND HYPOTHALAMUS

Question 1

What is the function of the thalamus ?

Answer 1

relay site for numerous inputs and outputs
involved in all sensory systems EXCEPT olfactory
enhances and restricts signals

Question 2

what is the intralaminar nuclei?

Answer 2

projects to various medial temporal lobe structures eg. amygdala, hippocampus and basal ganglia

mostly glutamateric neurones (excitatory)

Question 3

what is the reticular nucleus?

Answer 3

forms the outer coverings of the thalamus
relays information within the thalamus
mainly GABAergic neurones (inhibitory)
modulates thalamic activity (-ve feedback)

Question 4

what is the reticular formation?

Answer 4

a set of interconnected pathways in the brainstem that sends ascending projections to the forebrain
ASCENDING RETICULAR ACTIVATING SYSTEM

decree of consciousness is dependant on the ARAS

both intralaminar and reticular nuclei recieve inputs from the reticular formation

Question 5

what may be the result of a stroke in the thalamus?

Answer 5

contralateral hemianaesthesia
burning or aching sensation on half body
emotional disturbance

Question 6

what is the hypothalamus?

Answer 6

collection of individual nuclei
has direct conections and control of the ANS and endocrine system
involved in FEEDING, FLEEING, FIGHTING AND MATING