Raphe nuclei
Raphe Nuclei
Raphe nuclei (pronunciation: /ˈræfiː/; etymology: Greek, "seam") are a group of nuclei (clusters of neurons) found in the brain stem. They are primarily involved in the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in mood regulation, sleep, and other bodily functions.
Anatomy
The raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brain stem and are divided into two main groups: the rostral group, which includes the dorsal raphe nucleus and the median raphe nucleus, and the caudal group, which includes the nucleus raphe magnus, nucleus raphe obscurus, and nucleus raphe pallidus.
Function
The primary function of the raphe nuclei is the synthesis and release of serotonin. This neurotransmitter is involved in a variety of functions, including mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and pain perception. The raphe nuclei also play a role in the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate and digestion.
Clinical Significance
Alterations in the function of the raphe nuclei and serotonin levels have been implicated in a variety of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Additionally, damage to the raphe nuclei can result in a variety of symptoms, depending on the specific nuclei affected.
Related Terms
- Serotonin
- Dorsal raphe nucleus
- Median raphe nucleus
- Nucleus raphe magnus
- Nucleus raphe obscurus
- Nucleus raphe pallidus
- Autonomic nervous system
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Schizophrenia
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Raphe nuclei
- Wikipedia's article - Raphe nuclei
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