Anatomy +Structure
What does your Brainstem connect?
Brain and Spinal Chord
Where in the brain is the brainstem located?
bottom of the brain
What nerves are found in the brainstem?
Cranial nerve
Neurotransmission typically occurs across.....
Synapses
What are the three main parts of the brainstem?
Midbrain, Pons and Medulla oblongata.
What is the function of the brainstem?
Help regulate vital body functions
Function of the cranial nerve?
Send electrical signals around the body
What is the primary excitory neurotransmitter in brainstem neurotransmission?
Glutamate
Where is the Pons located within the brain stem, and what is its relation to the medulla oblongata?
It's Just above your medulla oblongata. (Second lowest point of your brainstem)
What is an example of what the brainstem helps the body to do?
Regulation, Sleep, Temperature, Eating etc
How many pairs of cranial nerves are found in the brainstem?
12 pairs
Which two neurotransmitters are primarily released by the locus coeruleus and the raphe nuclei respectively?
Serotonin + norepinephrine
Which anatomical structures in the brain stem are responsible for the regulation of autonomic functions like Heart rate and breathing ?
Medulla Oblongata
What is the vestibulo occur reflex?
Stabilises gaze during head movement
Name an example of how the cranial nerves affect the body
Equilibrium Control
How does the Reticular activating system in the brainstem contribute to wakefulness through neurotransmission ?
The RAS enhances wakefulness by using neurotransmitters like Acetylcholine.
How do cerebral peduncles, located in the midbrain, contribute to motor control and communication between the brainstem and higher brain regions?
They carry voluntary motor commands from the cerebral hemispheres.
Free points
500
A patient has ptosis, mydriasis and othlamoplegia, based on these symptoms which cranial nerve has been affected?
Oculomotor Nerve
How does the ventral tegmental area contribute to reward processing and motivation in the brainstem?
Releases Dopamine