Lecture 22: Central Nervous System – Brain Anatomy I (Chapter 12)

What are the 4 major divisions of the brain?

Cerebrum, Diencephalon, Cerebellum, Brainstem.

What is the main function of the cerebrum?

Responsible for intellectual activities, voluntary movements, sensory perception, language, and memory.

What does the diencephalon include and what are its functions?

Includes the thalamus and hypothalamus and epithalmus; controls sensory processing, emotions, and homeostasis functions.regulating circadian rhythms through the secretion of melatonin by the pineal gland.

What is the role of the cerebellum?

Regulates balance, posture, and coordination of voluntary movements.

What does the brainstem control?

Basic life-sustaining functions such as breathing, heart rate, and digestion.

What is the neural tube?

The early structure in embryonic development that forms the brain and spinal cord.

During which weeks of gestation does the neural tube undergo critical development?

Weeks 4 to 8.

What do brain ventricles produce and circulate?

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

What is the primary function of the brain ventricles?

To protect the brain by cushioning it against injury, removing waste, and transporting nutrients.

What does the term 'contralateral' mean?

Opposite side of the body in relation to hemispheric processing.

What is the function of the corpus callosum?

Connects the left and right hemispheres of the brain for communication.

What was learned from the split-brain experiments regarding the corpus callosum?

Each hemisphere has specialized functions and processes information independently.

What is Broca’s area and its function?

Located in the left frontal lobe; responsible for language production.

What is Wernicke’s area and its function?

Located in the left temporal lobe; responsible for language comprehension.

Where is the primary motor cortex located and what is its function?

Located in the frontal lobe; directs voluntary control of skeletal muscle.

What does the primary somatosensory cortex do?

Receives sensory information from the body.

What is the function of the premotor cortex?

Coordinates complex, learned movements.

Where is the primary visual cortex located?

Located in the occipital lobe.

What is the function of the primary auditory cortex?

Receives auditory information.

What is the function of the gustatory cortex?

Perceives taste stimuli.

What is the role of the anterior association area?

Responsible for complex learning, intellect, judgement, reasoning, and personality.