Brain. Computer artwork of a human brain in profile within a glass-effect male head. The outer layer of the brain, the cerebral cortex, is folded into gyri. The cortex is rich in nerve cells and is responsible for intelligent thought, language, memory and conscious movement. The principal lobes of the brain are the frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital lobes. The brainstem (bottom centre of the brain) sub- consciously controls the body's vital functions, including breathing and blood pressure. The brain stem connects the brain to the spinal cord. The cerebellum (lower left of brain) controls muscular coordination, balance and posture.