Paralimbic cortex

In the cerebral cortex the paralimbic cortex (also referred to as the mesocortex) is an area of three-layered cortex that consists of the following structures: the pyriform cortex, entorhinal cortex, and parahippocampal cortex on the medial surface of the temporal lobe, and the cingulate cortex just above the corpus callosum.

The paralimbic cortex lies close to the limbic structures, and is directly connected with it. The paralimbic cortex,, is interposed between the isocortex and the allocortex. The paralimbic cortex provides a gradual transition from primary limbic regions, including the septal region, substantia innominata, and the amygdaloid complex, to higher neocortical regions.

It is important to note that there are dense connections between the paralimbic cortex and core limbic structures, in particular the amygdala. The amygdaloid complex comprises both nuclear and cortical layers. These cortical features of the amygdala often extend into the paralimbic areas, blurring the boundaries between limbic and paralimbic regions. Thus, these regions may collectively be termed the ‘paralimbic system’.

Functions
A group of interconnecting brain structures that are involved in emotion processing, goal seeking, motivation and self-control.