Emotions are brain states characterized by altered perception, memory, decision-making, and motor behavior. They arise from the coordinated activity of neurons that form brain-wide circuits. A major hub in this circuit is the amygdala. The cellular signals emitted by the amygdala during emotional states, and the interactions between the amygdala and other nodes of this circuit, provide an insight into how certain stimuli (e.g., a threatening face or a gentle touch) gain emotional significance and alter behavior.
