[The amygdaloid body of the brain: some topics for discussion and little-studied problems]

Features of functional morphology of the amygdaloid brain complex (ABC) are analyzed in a new light presenting the notion of the ABC as a nucleo-paleocortical structure. The analysis of the structural organization of ABC could imply the presence of phylogenetically differentiated parts: the ancient, the old and the new amygdala. The presentation carries original data on the morphometric and histophysiological studies under various experimental alterations of the endocrine system. A concept is developed of the existence of a rostrocaudal gradient in the expression of sex-dependent structural and functional features of the amygdaloid complex as a neuroendocrine brain centre. Provided is technical recommendation for use in biological studies of amygdaloid brain complex mathematical models based on the theory of image identification. An original technique has also been recommended for selective dissection of the ABC with its eventual removal from nonfixed brain, which allows studies to be made of the ABC neurophysiological and neurochemical properties on surviving slices. Evidence is adduced indicating involvement of the ABC in the process of the brain sex differentiation.