How does “amygdala cells” are activated?
The amygdaloid region of the brain (i.e. the amygdala) is a complex structure involved in a wide range of normal behavioral functions and psychiatric conditions. Not so long ago it was an obscure region of the brain that attracted relatively little scientific interest. Today it is one of the most heavily studied brain areas, and practically a household word. This article will summarize the anatomical organization of the amygdala and its functions. Sources: http://www.scholarpedia.
Different nuclei of the amygdala have unique connections (Figures 4, 5, and 6), which is why each nucleus makes unique contributions to functions. A thorough discussion of all the connections is beyond the present scope. Therefore, a few key examples will be given. The lateral amygdala is a major site receiving inputs from visual, auditory, somatosensory (including pain) systems, the medial nucleus of the amygdala is strongly connected with the olfactory system, and the central nucleus connects with brainstem areas that control the expression of innate behaviors and associated physiological responses. In many instances, the subnuclei of a given nucleus also have distinct connections. The lateral nucleus, for example, includes dorsal, medial, and ventrolateral subnuclei, while the central nucleus contains lateral, capsular, and medial subnuclei. The dorsal subnucleus of the lateral nucleus receives much of the direct sensory flow to the amygdala, while the medial division of the central
