Two Minute Neuroscience: The Brainstem

Introduction

• Overview of the brainstem
  • Connects the brain to the spinal cord
  • Contains pathways to other areas like the cerebellum
  • Houses important nuclei
  • Essential for survival and cognitive functioning

Major Divisions of the Brainstem

1. Medulla Oblongata (Medulla)

   • Connects brainstem to the spinal cord
   • Essential for survival
   • Contains nuclei for vital systems:
     • Cardiovascular
     • Respiratory
   • Controls reflexive actions:
     • Vomiting
     • Swallowing
     • Coughing
     • Sneezing
   • Exit point for several cranial nerves

2. Pons

   • Means "bridge" in Latin
   • Connects medulla to the midbrain
   • Contains cranial nerve nuclei
   • Functions:
     • Sensations from head and face
     • Motor movement of eyes, face, and mouth
     • Hearing and equilibrium
     • Autonomic functions (tear and saliva production)

3. Midbrain

   • Final branch moving toward the cerebrum
   • Contains four bumps (two paired structures):
     • Superior Colliculi: Involved in eye movements and visual processing
     • Inferior Colliculi: Involved in auditory processing
   • Contains major dopamine-producing nuclei:
     • Ventral Tegmental Area: Involved in motivation and reward
     • Substantia Nigra: Plays a role in movement

Conclusion

• The brainstem's integral role in connecting the brain with the spinal cord and its critical function in regulating essential bodily functions and cognitive processes.