Thalamus

Definition

The thalamus is a small structure within the brain that serves as a relay station for information coming from the senses to the cerebral cortex. It plays a crucial role in processing and transmitting sensory and motor signals, as well as in regulating consciousness, sleep, and alertness.

Related terms

Cerebral Cortex: The outer layer of neural tissue of the cerebrum of the brain, playing a key role in memory, attention, perception, cognition, awareness, thought, language, and consciousness.

Sensory Information: Data received by sensory receptors that convey information to the brain about physical stimuli from outside or within the body.

Motor Signals: Neural impulses that travel from the brain or spinal cord to a muscle or gland, initiating contraction or secretion