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Equine Nervous System - Horse Anatomy (view source)
Revision as of 20:56, 21 November 2012
, 20:56, 21 November 2012→Hindbrain
====Hindbrain====
====Hindbrain====
[[File:Brain sagittal section stem highlighted.svg|thumb|right|300px|Brain sagittal section stem highlighted]]
The hind brain is also called the '''[[CNS Development - Anatomy & Physiology#Development of the Brain|developing rhombencephalon]]''', it provides the connection between the spinal cord and the rest of the brain. The hindbrain contains many vital structures including the '''Medulla Oblongata''', the '''Pons''' (the link between the cerebellum, forebrain and mid-brain) and the majority of the [[Cranial Nerves - Anatomy & Physiology|'''cranial nerves''']] III to XII. In general the brain stem governs essential functions that are carried out sub-consciously via reflexes. As well as containing numerous cranial nerves, the hind brain also contains many ''''extra-pyramidal pathways'''' which include the '''reticular formation''', the '''olivary nucleus''' and the '''pontine nuclei'''. Nuclei within the hindbrain are also responsible for the '''reflexive control of posture and eye movement'''.
The '''reticular formation''' is a diffuse interconnection of neurons running throughout the brainstem receiving both sensory and motor nerve tracts. This information is then passed on to higher centres in the brain such as the [[cerebrum]]. One important aspect of the reticular formation is that in order to transition from sleep to consciousness, the reticular formation is required to activate the cerebral cortex (ascending reticular activating system). It also contains '''cerebellar pathways''' and peduncles facilitating a connection from the brain stem to the cerebellum. There are also a number of ''''pyramidal pathways'''' and afferent pathways including the '''cuneate''' and '''gracile''' pathways.
===Cranial Nerves===
===Cranial Nerves===