thalamus
/ˈθæləməs/
noun
- A small structure deep in the brain that relays sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex and helps regulate consciousness, sleep, and alertness.
- Injuries to the thalamus can cause problems with memory and attention.
- During deep sleep, the thalamus blocks most sensory signals from reaching the cortex.
- The thalamus acts like a relay station, sending sensory information to the appropriate parts of the brain.