Medulla oblongata

The Medulla oblongata (pronunciation: /məˈdʌlə ɒbˈlɒŋɡɑːtə/) is a crucial part of the human brain that forms the lower part of the brainstem. It is responsible for regulating several vital functions, including respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Etymology

The term "Medulla oblongata" is derived from the Latin words "medulla," meaning "marrow," and "oblongata," which means "elongated." This name is a reference to the organ's elongated, marrow-like shape.

Function

The Medulla oblongata controls numerous autonomic functions. It houses the control centers for the heart and lungs, regulating heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. It also plays a role in reflex actions such as vomiting, coughing, sneezing, and swallowing.

Anatomy

The Medulla oblongata is located in the brainstem, directly above the spinal cord and below the pons. It contains various nerve centers that control the body's autonomic functions. It also serves as a relay station, transmitting signals between the brain and the spinal cord.

Related Terms

Brainstem: The part of the brain that connects the cerebrum with the spinal cord. It includes the medulla oblongata, the midbrain, and the pons.
Autonomic nervous system: The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary actions, such as heart rate and digestion. The medulla oblongata plays a crucial role in this system.
Respiration: The process of inhaling and exhaling air. The medulla oblongata contains the respiratory center, which controls this process.
Cardiovascular system: The body system that circulates blood and lymph through the body. The medulla oblongata helps regulate this system by controlling heart rate and blood pressure.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Medulla oblongata
Wikipedia's article - Medulla oblongata

This WikiMD 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

Medulla oblongata