The medulla oblongata is located in the brainstem and is responsible for control of the autonomic nervous system which includes control of heart rate and respiration. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for automatic control of the body’s internal organs and systems.
The medulla oblongata receives input from the cardiovascular and respiratory centers in the brain and sends output to the heart and lungs. It also receives input from the higher centers in the brain including the cortex and this input is thought to be important in modulating the autonomic output.
The medulla oblongata contains several important nuclei including the cardiovascular center which controls heart rate and the respiratory center which controls respiration. These centers receive input from the baroreceptors chemoreceptors and other sensors in the body and they send output to the heart and lungs.
The medulla oblongata is a critical part of the brain and damage to this area can result in death.
What is the name of the largest part of the brain?
Cerebrum
What is the primary function of the cerebrum?
The cerebrum is responsible for higher brain functions such as movement cognition and sensory processing.
What is the name of the middle part of the brain?
Cerebellum
What is the primary function of the cerebellum?
The cerebellum is responsible for coordination and balance.
What is the name of the smallest part of the brain?
Brainstem
What is the primary function of the brainstem?
The brainstem is responsible for basic life functions such as heart rate and breathing.
What is the name of the structure that connects the two hemispheres of the brain?
Corpus callosum
What is the primary function of the corpus callosum?
The corpus callosum is responsible for communication between the two hemispheres of the brain.
What is the name of the fluid-filled space that surrounds the brain?
Cerebrospinal fluid
What is the function of cerebrospinal fluid?
Cerebrospinal fluid cushions and protects the brain.
What is the name of the membrane that covers the brain?
Dura mater
What is the function of the dura mater?
The dura mater protects the brain.
What is the name of the membrane that covers the cerebellum?
Pia mater
What is the function of the pia mater?
The pia mater protects the cerebellum.
What is the name of the fluid that fills the space between the dura mater and the pia mater?
Cerebrospinal fluid
