Brain Stem Part Two Continued

Flashcards related to the structure and functions of the brain stem, including the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain.

Medulla Oblongata

A part of the brainstem associated with several vital functions including sensory and motor nuclei for cranial nerves, relay stations, and autonomic functions.

Sensory and Motor Nuclei

Groups of nuclei in the medulla oblongata associated with the five cranial nerves responsible for various sensory and motor functions.

Cranial Nerves

Nerves that emerge directly from the brain, specifically the medulla oblongata, involved in functions such as taste, swallowing, and organ regulation.

Autonomic Nuclei

Clusters of nuclei in the medulla that control visceral activities such as respiration and cardiovascular functions.

Respiratory Rhythmicity Center

The area in the medulla oblongata that establishes the basic rhythm of respiration.

Nucleus Gracilis

A relay station in the medulla that processes somatic sensory information from the inferior half of the body.

Nucleus Cuneatus

A relay station in the medulla that processes somatic sensory information from the superior half of the body.

Olivary Nucleus

A structure in the medulla that relays information from the red nucleus.

Pons

A part of the brainstem that contains sensory and motor nuclei of cranial nerves and centers involved in respiration.

Apneustic Center

A nucleus in the pons that modifies the activity of the respiratory rhythmicity center.

Tectum

The dorsal portion of the midbrain containing visual and auditory processing centers.

Corpora Quadrigemina

Two pairs of sensory nuclei in the midbrain that are involved in visual (superior colliculus) and auditory (inferior colliculus) processing.

Substantia Nigra

A nucleus in the midbrain containing pigmented gray matter and playing a role in movement.

Cerebellum

A brain structure located behind the pons that coordinates voluntary movements and balance.

Thalamus

A brain structure that acts as a relay station for sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex.

Reticular Formation

A network of neurons in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in regulating wakefulness and sleep.