Hindbrain
Hindbrain
The Hindbrain (pronounced: /ˈhaɪndˌbreɪn/) is the lower part of the brain that includes the cerebellum, pons, and medulla oblongata. It is responsible for various functions including motor skills, balance, and coordination.
Etymology
The term "Hindbrain" originates from the combination of two words: "hind", an Old English word meaning "at the back", and "brain", a common term for the organ within the skull. The term thus refers to the back part of the brain.
Structure
The Hindbrain is composed of three main parts:
- Cerebellum - This part of the brain plays a significant role in motor control and coordination. It also contributes to cognitive functions such as attention and language.
- Pons - The pons serves as a message station between several areas of the brain. It helps relay messages from the cortex and the cerebellum.
- Medulla Oblongata - This is the lower half of the brainstem. It controls the autonomic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Function
The Hindbrain controls various autonomic functions and coordinates motor activities. It is crucial for maintaining balance and equilibrium, coordinating fine motor movements, and controlling visceral functions.
Related Terms
- Brainstem - The part of the brain that connects the cerebrum with the spinal cord. It includes the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.
- Midbrain - The portion of the brain responsible for visual and auditory reflexes.
- Forebrain - The largest part of the brain, including the cerebral hemispheres, thalamus, and hypothalamus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hindbrain
- Wikipedia's article - Hindbrain
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski