Lens Core: Learning And Motivation Center

Our nervous system is full of miracles, and one of them is the lens nucleus. It is a structure under the cortex that is one of the centers of motivation and learning, among other things. However, when we talk about the lens nucleus, we are not referring to any particular structure, but rather to a number of different structures.

In this article, we introduce the parts, features, and functions associated with this kernel. We also tell you about the most common problems with the lens core and their consequences. Let’s get started!

What are the different parts of a lens core?

First, the lens core gets its name from the fact that it is lens-shaped. It is located below the brain island and has three parts, which are mainly divided into two structures according to “ Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain” (by Bears, Connors, and Paradiso). These two structures are:

• Cerebral cortex (putamen). Round in shape and outermost of nuclei. Combines with the black nucleus and the ball of the lens nucleus, allowing information to flow between the basal nuclei, cortex, and thalamus.
• Lens nucleus ball (Globus pallidus). It is divided into two parts: external (i.e. lateral) and internal (i.e. medial). Gets information about the stroke and is projected into the thalamus and through it into the cortex.

Thus, it can be said that the lens nucleus is a union of two structures. It consists of gray material, is wedge-shaped and is attached to the inner and outer capsules. In particular, there are GABA mediators, acetylcholine and enkephalin.

What other parts of the basal nuclei belong in addition to the lens nucleus?

• Brainstorm
• Blackhead
• Tail nucleus
• Lying nucleus
• Subtalal nucleus

These are interconnected nuclei located around the limbic system and the third ventricle. Their tasks include planning, integration, movement management, learning and motivation. Remember that while each part of the brain has its own anatomical region, they are not involved in a single function.

Functions of the lens nucleus

The lens core has many different functions, the most important of which are:

• Motivation. Integrate information, combining information and stimuli. Isn’t that amazing?
• Learning. Above all, it is related to procedural learning. Participates in categorization through which to facilitate the structuring of information. Also involved in acquiring and improving skills.
• Action. Associated with the automation of movements by participating in various processes such as habituation. It also has a role to play in maintaining posture and managing the coordination of movements. The cortex handles the muscle movements of the face and limbs.

To perform these functions, the lens nucleus establishes connections with the cortex and thalamic nuclei. This connection can be two-way.

Lens nucleus and related disorders

The lens nucleus can be associated with subcortical dementias, such as those caused by Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease. These are associated with an inability or difficulty in coordinating and performing movements, and are associated with disturbances in executive functions and memory functions.

This nucleus is also associated with psychomotor disorders. One example of this is again Parkinson’s disease, as it affects the nuclei. The lens nucleus is also associated with other movement disorders such as ataxia, Tourette’s syndrome, and other tic symptoms.

In addition, the lens nucleus may be involved in some mental disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, as both the tail nucleus and the cortex are overactivated. In addition, abnormal lens function also appears to have an effect on activity and attention deficit disorder (ADHD), as it affects motivation and learning, and contributes to the onset of tic symptoms.

The lens core is thus an essential structure when compacted. We have now seen that it is involved in many different tasks such as motor skills and concentration. In addition to this, it helps us to process information in a more structured way, which  enhances learning. However, changes in the lens nucleus can directly affect our well-being and, consequently, our quality of life.