What major structures lie beneath the cerebral cortex?

The main structures found below the cerebral cortex include the thalamus, hypothalamus, and limbic system (such as the hippocampus and amygdala). These regions play key roles in processing sensory information, regulating body functions, and managing emotions. Other important areas include the basal ganglia, which control movement, and the white matter, which connects different regions of the brain through bundles of nerve fibers.

Subcortical Structures

• Thalamus: Serves as the brain’s relay center, channeling sensory information to the appropriate areas of the cerebral cortex.
• Hypothalamus: Controls essential bodily functions like temperature regulation, hunger, thirst, and sleep cycles.
• Limbic System: Includes structures such as the hippocampus and amygdala, which are central to emotion, memory, and motivation.
• Basal Ganglia: A group of nuclei that help coordinate movement, learning, and emotional responses.
• Pituitary Gland: Although part of the endocrine system, it sits just below the hypothalamus and works closely with it, making it functionally part of the subcortical region.

Other Important Structures

• White Matter: Located just beneath the cortex, it contains nerve fibers (axons) that connect neurons and allow communication between different brain areas.
• Ventricles: These are fluid-filled spaces in the brain that hold cerebrospinal fluid. The lateral ventricles, found within the cerebral hemispheres, lie just beneath the cortex.