Spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum

Question 1

Spinal cord

Answer 1

Consist of different sections that communicate to different regions. Two streams

To the CNS: Through dorsal thorn, affent signals

From CNS : Through ventral thorn, Effent signals

Question 2

Brainstem

Answer 2

Sits on top of spinal cord, consist of medulla, pons and midbrain. Highly complex and main goal is maintaining life

Question 3

Medulla (oblongata)

Answer 3

Responsible for automatic (involuntary) functioning like heartrate, sneezing, blood pressure etc.

Question 4

Pons (bridge)

Answer 4

Bridge between forebrain and cerebellum. Also deels with sleep, swallowing, facial expressions etc. Inhibits muscles during sleep; sleep paralysis

Question 5

Midbrain

Answer 5

Two main parts:

• Tectum. Superior colliculus (relevant flash stimuli in eyes) and inferior colliculus (Same but for auditory stimuli). Culliculi are the dots on midbrain. (this division might be more complex)
• Tegmentum = ventral tegmental area, largest dopamine producing site in the brain. Directly to Basal Ganglia

Question 6

Reticular formation (RAS)

Answer 6

Located in the brainstem (center). Crucially involved in arousal and attention. Damage will most likely end in coma

Question 7

Cerebellum

Answer 7

Spinocerebellum (medial part) for precise control of moving limbs

Neocerebellum (lateral) planning movements and time perception

Vestibulocerebellum (inferior) maintains balance and coordinates eye movement while moving