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Related Concept Videos

Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System01:15

Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System

The limbic system, often called the "emotional brain," is a complex set of structures located deep within the brain. The intricate network of the limbic system supports a wide range of psychological functions, from emotional regulation to memory formation and sensory processing. This functional brain region encompasses specific parts of the diencephalon and the cerebrum, integrating the higher mental functions of the cerebral cortex with the primitive emotional responses of the deep brain...
Organization of the Brain01:30

Organization of the Brain

The brain is an integral component of the nervous system and serves as the center for processing sensory inputs, making decisions, and directing bodily actions. This complex organ is organized into three primary sections: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, each responsible for a range of vital functions.
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
Diencephalon: Hypothalamus and Coordination01:23

Diencephalon: Hypothalamus and Coordination

The hypothalamus is a small yet highly complex and essential brain region that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. Anatomically, it is located at the base of the brain, just above the brainstem and below the thalamus, forming part of the limbic system.
The hypothalamus interacts with other brain regions, including the pituitary gland, through a direct physical connection called the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. The hypothalamus receives somatic and visceral inputs and...
Diencephalon: Anatomical Regions01:30

Diencephalon: Anatomical Regions

The diencephalon, etymologically translated as 'through brain,' plays an integral role as the conduit between the cerebrum and the vast extent of the nervous system. However, the olfactory system is an exception, as it interfaces directly with the cerebrum. The diencephalon, deeply ensconced beneath the cerebrum, primarily consists of three paired structures — the thalamus, hypothalamus, and epithelamus. It also includes accessory structures such as the subthalamus, which houses the subthalamic...
Lobes of the Cerebrum01:22

Lobes of the Cerebrum

The cerebral cortex, a critical structure of the brain, is intricately divided into two hemispheres, each consisting of four distinct lobes: occipital, temporal, frontal, and parietal. These lobes function cooperatively to regulate various cognitive and sensory functions, forming the basis of our complex neural capabilities.
Frontal lobe
The frontal lobes, located behind the forehead, are the command center of our brain, controlling personality, intelligence, and voluntary muscle movements.
Brainstem01:19

Brainstem

The brainstem, located inferior to the brain and superior to the spinal cord, serves as a bridge between the cerebrum and the spinal cord. It plays a vital role in relaying information and controlling critical life functions. It comprises three primary regions: the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.
The Midbrain
The midbrain is located beneath the diencephalon and connects the cerebrum with the lower parts of the brain. The cerebral peduncles are prominent midbrain structures that house the...

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Related Experiment Video

Microdissection of Mouse Brain into Functionally and Anatomically Different Regions
08:06

Microdissection of Mouse Brain into Functionally and Anatomically Different Regions

Published on: February 15, 2021

Brain structure and function in Homo naledi.

Zachary Cofran1, Shawn Hurst2, John Hawks3

  • 1Anthropology Department, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York, USA. zcofran@vassar.edu.

Brain Structure & Function
|June 15, 2026

View abstract on PubMed

Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Endocasts reveal Homo naledi brains had modern-like frontal lobes but ancestral overall size and proportions. This finding aids understanding of human brain evolution and ancient hominin behavior.

Keywords:
CerebellumCognitionEndocastGeometric morphometricsLife history

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Exploring Deep Space - Uncovering the Anatomy of Periventricular Structures to Reveal the Lateral Ventricles of the Human Brain
17:13

Exploring Deep Space - Uncovering the Anatomy of Periventricular Structures to Reveal the Lateral Ventricles of the Human Brain

Published on: October 22, 2017

Related Experiment Videos

Microdissection of Mouse Brain into Functionally and Anatomically Different Regions
08:06

Microdissection of Mouse Brain into Functionally and Anatomically Different Regions

Published on: February 15, 2021

Exploring Deep Space - Uncovering the Anatomy of Periventricular Structures to Reveal the Lateral Ventricles of the Human Brain
17:13

Exploring Deep Space - Uncovering the Anatomy of Periventricular Structures to Reveal the Lateral Ventricles of the Human Brain

Published on: October 22, 2017

Area of Science:

  • Paleoneurology
  • Paleoanthropology
  • Evolutionary biology

Background:

  • Endocasts offer direct evidence of ancient brains, crucial for reconstructing brain evolution.
  • Homo naledi, a recently discovered human species, presents a unique case for studying brain morphology and behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the capabilities and limitations of endocasts in understanding ancient brains.
  • To analyze the brain of Homo naledi using advanced methods and compare it with other hominins.
  • To contextualize findings within recent paleoanthropological and neuroimaging advancements.

Main Methods:

  • Review of published evidence on Homo naledi brain and behavior.
  • Geometric morphometric analysis to reconstruct the most complete Homo naledi endocast.
  • Comparative analysis of the Homo naledi endocast with modern humans and Pleistocene hominins.

    • Main Results:

    • The Homo naledi brain exhibits a derived frontal lobe.
    • It retains ancestral characteristics in overall size, morphology, and cerebro-cerebellar proportions.
    • This presents a unique mosaic of ancestral and derived traits.

    Conclusions:

    • Endocast analysis of Homo naledi provides insights into a unique combination of brain evolution.
    • Findings contribute to understanding the diversity of hominin brain development.
    • Integrates endocast data with broader paleoanthropological and neuroscientific frameworks.