Mesencephalon (Midbrain)

The mesencephalon

contains nuclei that process visual and auditory stimuli and major nuclei of the reticular formation

Tectum

the roof/surface of the mesencephalon; responsible for processing auditory and visual stimuli; consists of the corpora quadrigemina (superior and inferior colliculi)

Inferior colliculi

receive auditory input from nuclei in the medulla oblongata

Superior colliculi

receive visual input from the lateral geniculate of the thalamus on the ipsilateral (same) side

What is the function of the nuclei of the reticular formation?

produces a variety of involuntary motor responses upon stimulation

What are the parts of the reticular nuclei?

red nucleus amd substantia nigra

Red nucleus

gets its color fro its numerous blood vessels; processes information from the cerebrum and cerebellum and issues involuntary motor commands that maintain muscle tone and limb position

Substantia nigra

contains darkly pigmented cells, giving it a black color; regulates the motor output of the basal nuclei

Cerebral Penduncles

carries voluntary motor commands from the primary motor cortex of each cerebral hemisphere