Brain Stem

Background Midbrain, pons, medulla oblongata Pathway for ascending and descending tracts, Many small gray matter areas Form CRANIAL NERVES Control breathing and blood pressure

Midbrain Extends from mamillary bodies of hypothalamus to pons Reflex centers involved with vision and hearing

Pons Protrudes below midbrain “bridge” Mostly fiber tracts Involved in control in breathing

Medulla Oblongata Most inferior part of brain Merges into spinal cord Fiber tract area Regulate visceral activities Control heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, swallowing, and vomiting

Reticular Formation Extends entire length of brain stem Neurons involves in control of visceral organs Reticular Activating System-plays a role in consciousness and the awake/sleep cycles