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Midbrain - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 15:58, 6 August 2011
, 15:58, 6 August 2011no edit summary
==Introduction==
==Introduction==
The midbrain or mesencephalon represents the connection between the brain stem and the higher centres of the brain and is involved in most body systems including sleep/conciousness, vision, hearing and temperature regulation. The midbrain is located between the diencephalon and the hind brain, or brain stem. More specifically it can be found ventral to the cerebral cortex and between the cerebral pedicles of the diecncephalon and the pons. It connects higher brain centres with the lower centres and the spinal cord. In most species the mid brain is found most centrally to the cranial cavity.
The midbrain or mesencephalon represents the connection between the brain stem and the higher centres of the brain and is involved in most body systems including sleep/conciousness, vision, hearing and temperature regulation. The midbrain is located between the diencephalon and the hind brain, or brain stem. More specifically it can be found ventral to the cerebral cortex and between the cerebral pedicles of the diecncephalon and the pons. It connects higher brain centres with the lower centres and the spinal cord. In most species the mid brain is found most centrally to the cranial cavity.
==Midbrain Development==
The midbrain arises from the [[CNS_Development_-_Anatomy_%26_Physiology#Development_of_the_Brain|mesencephalon]]. One of the key roles of this area of the brain during development is the maintainence of a patent cerebral aqueduct to facilitate the appropriate development of higher brains structures including the cerebral hemispheres.
==Midbrain Structure & Function==
==Midbrain Structure & Function==
It’s tectum (roof) has four [[#Colliculi|colliculi]], two rostral and two caudal. Cranial nerves III and IV have their nuculi within the midbrain.
It’s tectum (roof) has four [[#Colliculi|colliculi]], two rostral and two caudal. Cranial nerves III and IV have their nuculi within the midbrain.
==Structure and Function==
==Structure and Function==