Midbrain

Midbrain

The smallest part of the brainstem, located above the pons, involved in conducting tracts between the higher brain and the body.

Cerebral Aqueduct

A channel that carries cerebrospinal fluid from the third ventricle to the fourth ventricle, located in the midbrain.

Cranial Nerve III (Oculomotor)

A cranial nerve that controls most of the eye's movement, as well as pupil dilation and the eyelid.

Cranial Nerve IV (Trochlear)

A cranial nerve responsible for controlling the superior oblique muscle of the eye.

Cerebral Peduncle

Part of the midbrain that helps to refine motor movements and improve coordination.

Corpora Quadrigemini (Tectum)

A region in the midbrain consisting of four colliculi that assist in visual and auditory reflexes.

Superior Colliculi

Part of the tectum responsible for visual reflexes and coordination of head and eye movements.

Inferior Colliculi

Part of the tectum responsible for auditory processing and reflexive responses to sound.

Substantia Nigra

A nucleus in the midbrain that produces dopamine, influencing movement, reward-seeking behavior, and addiction.

Red Nucleus

A nucleus in the midbrain involved in coordinating movements of the shoulder and upper arm.

Reticular Activating System

Part of the reticular formation that plays a crucial role in habituation, arousal, and controlling circadian rhythms.