The Forebrain

The forebrain contains several important structures and is located at the front of the brain. It contains the limbic system, thalamus, hypothalamus, pituitary gland, basal ganglia, hippocampus, ventricles containing cerebrospinal fluid, and meninges. The limbic system controls behaviors like motivation and emotions. The thalamus acts as a relay for sensory information to and from the brain. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland regulate hormones that control eating, drinking, temperature, and stress levels. The hippocampus stores new memories.