APA Dictionary of Psychology

one of the two main groups of nuclei in the amygdala within the brain and the largest portion of the amygdaloid complex. Its nuclei receive neuromodulatory input from various neurotransmitter systems in the basal forebrain and brainstem, are connected particularly with higher order sensory and limbic association areas, and project to the central amygdala. They are implicated in fear conditioning and emotional learning. Also called basolateral complex. See also corticomedial group.