(a) Neural co-ordination:
Co-ordination is the process through which two or more organs interact and complement the functions of one another. In our body the neural system and the endocrine system jointly coordinate and integrate all the activities of the organs so that they function in a synchronised fashion. The neural system provides an organised network of point to point connections for a quick co-ordinations. Neural – co-ordination includes mechanisms like transmission of nerve impulse, impulse conduction across a synapse and reflex action.
(b) Forebrain:
The forebrain consists of cerebrum, thalamus and hypothalamus. Cerebrum is divided longitudinally into two halves, left and right cerebral hemispheres. The hemispheres are connected by a tract of nerve fibres called corpus callosum. The layer of cells which covers the cerebral hemisphere is called cerebral cortex and is thrown into prominent folds. It is referred to as grey matter due to greyish appearance. The cerebral cortex contains motor areas, sensory areas and association areas which are responsible for complex functions like intersensory associations, memory and communication.
Fibres of the tracts are covered with the myelin sheath, which constitute the inner part of cerebral hemisphere. This layer is white in colour, hence called white matter. The cerebrum wraps around a structure called thalamus, which is a major co-ordinating centre for sensory and motor signalling. Hypothalamus lies at the base of the thalamus and contains several group of neurosecretory cells, which secrete hormones called hypothalamic hormones. The inner parts of cerebral hemispheres and a group of associated deep structures like amygdala, hippocampus, etc. form a complex structure called the limbic lobe or limbic system.
(c) Midbrain:
The midbrain is located between the thalamus / hypothalamus of the forebrain and pons of the hind brain. A canal called the cerebral aqueduct passes through the mid brain. The dorsal portion of the midbrain consists of four round swellings (lobes) called Corpora quadrigemina. Midbrain and hindbrain form the brain stem
