Definition & Meaning of "thalamus"

What is "thalamus"?

The thalamus is a vital component of the brain responsible for relaying sensory information from the peripheral nervous system to the cerebral cortex. It serves as a central hub, receiving and sorting sensory signals before transmitting them to the relevant areas of the brain for further processing and interpretation. Additionally, the thalamus plays a crucial role in regulating consciousness, sleep, and alertness.