The thalamus and language revisited

► The left thalamus performs a special role in language and verbal memory. ► Thalamic stimulation of distinct nuclear regions leads to distinct naming errors. ► Pulvinar stim disrupts synchronization action of cortico-pulvinar-cortical system. ► The specific alerting response (SAR) occurs with anterior VL nucleus stimulation. ► SAR may involve activation of thalamocortical system or thalamostriatal projections.