Knowra Brainstem Brainstem The brainstem is the stalk-like region connecting the cerebrum with the spinal cord. It comprises the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata and supports vital functions such as breathing and alertness.
Midbrain : The brainstem division between the pons and forebrain, involved in movement, vision, hearing, and arousal. Its superior division contains pathways and nuclei for sensory orienting and motor control.
Respiratory center : A network of brainstem neurons that generates and adjusts the rhythmic pattern of breathing. Medullary and pontine circuits shape breathing rhythm and adapt it to bodily needs.
Brainstem stroke : A stroke caused by disrupted blood flow or bleeding in the brainstem. Small lesions can disrupt multiple pathways and produce severe, distinctive deficits.
Cerebrum : The largest brain region, including the cerebral hemispheres and their cortex, involved in perception, cognition, and voluntary action. The cerebrum is the major brain region connected to the spinal cord through the brainstem.
Pons : The brainstem division between the midbrain and medulla that connects brain regions and contributes to breathing and sleep. Its middle division relays signals between the cerebrum and cerebellum.
Cardiovascular center : Brainstem neural circuits that regulate heart rate and blood vessel tone. Medullary control helps stabilize blood pressure and heart activity.
Locked-in syndrome : A condition of near-total paralysis with preserved consciousness, commonly caused by damage to the ventral pons. Damage to pontine motor pathways can prevent movement while sparing awareness.
Spinal cord : A central nervous system structure that carries signals between the brain and body and mediates reflexes. It continues downward from the medulla, marking the brainstem’s lower anatomical boundary.
Medulla oblongata : The lowest brainstem division, continuous with the spinal cord and containing centers for vital autonomic functions. Its lower division regulates essential functions including cardiovascular activity and breathing.
Ascending reticular activating system : Neural pathways that promote wakefulness and conscious awareness by activating the cerebral cortex. Brainstem pathways in this system help maintain arousal and support consciousness.
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