Tegmental refers to a part or aspect related to the cerebral cortex, which is the outer layer of neural tissue in the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions such as thinking, learning and memory. The term can be used to describe something that relates to the cerebellum, basal ganglia, thalamus or other subcortical structures deep within the brain. In some contexts, it may also refer to a part of the brainstem involved in regulating breathing and heart rate.