Finding your way around

An annotated guide to the brain

Remember, many simple and complex psychological functions are mediated by multiple brain regions and – at the same time – a single brain area may control many psychological functions.

Annotated image of the brain
CC BY

Illustration by Bret Syfert

  1. Cortex: The thin, folded structure on the outside surface of the brain.
  2. Cerebral hemispheres: The two halves of the brain, each of which controls and receives information from the opposite side of the body. 
  3. Pituitary gland: The ‘master gland’ of the body, which releases hormones that control growth, blood pressure, the stress response and the function of the sex organs.
  4. Substantia nigra: The ‘black substance’ contains cells that produce the neurotransmitter dopamine and the pigment melatonin, giving it a black appearance.
  5. Hypothalamus: The interface between the brain and pituitary gland. It controls the production and release of hormones.
  6. Spinal cord: A large bundle of millions of nerve fibres and neuronal cells, which carries information back and forth between the brain and the body.
  7. Medulla oblongata: Controls vital involuntary functions such as breathing and heart rate.
  8. Cerebellum: The ‘little brain’ that controls balance and coordinates movements. It’s normally required for learning motor skills, such as riding a bike, and is involved in thought processes.
  9. Cranial nerve nuclei: Clusters of neurons in the brain stem. Their axons form the cranial nerves.

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About this resource

This resource was first published in ‘Inside the Brain’ in January 2013 and reviewed and updated in November 2017.

Topic:
Neuroscience
Issue:
Inside the Brain
Education levels:
16–19, Continuing professional development

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