Parts of the Brain: The Brainstem

Now for even more neuroscience! What are the basic parts of the brain, and what functions do they serve? This post will attempt to summarize the importance of the brain stem. We will pick up again with neuroanatomy and describe the basic functions of the brain stem.

There are mainly three different parts of the brain - the cerebrum, the cerebellum, and the brain stem.

The brain stem is the “simplest” part of the three complex brain structures. It is also found in some shape or form in most animals. It helps mediate many of your involuntary functions such as your heartbeat and breathing. The brain stem primarily consists of the Midbrain, the Pons, and the Medulla Oblongata.

The midbrain (known by neuroscientists as the mesencephalon) is primarily composed of the tectum, tegmentum, and the cerebral peduncle. These parts are especially important for regulating body movement, as well as vision and hearing. The cerebral peduncle essentially contains the axons that transfer the messages from the cerebrum all the way down to the brain stem, allowing (voluntary) motor control of the body.

The Pons is actually a part of the metaencephalon (not mesencephalon) which is located in the hindbrain and connects to the cerebellum to enable proper balance and posture (in addition to movement). The pons is also responsible for creating the “consciousness” necessary for sleep (which is, of course, crucial to human life). Finally, it is able to interpret the information it receives from the motor control functions.

The medulla is especially vital to the human body. We do not think about breathing or beating our heart. Instead, this part of the brain is responsible for our involuntary muscle movement, such as heartbeat and breathing rates. With the cerebrum, the cerebellum, and the brain stem all working together to control, develop, and maintain the human body, we can be sure that our brain is the most important part.