Neuroanatomy: Brain Development, Structures, and Blood Supply

Encephalon

The developing brain

Forebrain (Prosencephalon)

Develops into cerebrum and diencephalon

Midbrain (Mesencephalon)

Involved in auditory and visual processing

Hindbrain (Rhombencephalon)

Develops into pons, medulla, cerebellum

Forebrain Structures

Cerebrum

Thought, learning, speech, voluntary movement

Thalamus

Sensory relay station (except smell)

Hypothalamus

Maintains homeostasis and regulates autonomic functions

Pituitary Gland

Master endocrine gland

Hindbrain & Brainstem

Pons

Relay station; sleep and arousal

Medulla Oblongata

Controls breathing, heart rate, swallowing

Cerebellum

Coordinates movement and balance

Brainstem

Connects cerebrum to spinal cord and controls vital functions

Cerebrovascular System

Internal Carotid Arteries

Supply anterior brain

Vertebral Arteries

Supply posterior brain

Basilar Artery

Formed by vertebral arteries at pons

Circle of Willis

Arterial circle that equalizes blood flow