VPB 121: Veterinary Physiology - II (2+1)

BRAIN STEM

• It is the group of CNS structures continuous with the spinal cord.  It forms a vital link between the spinal cord and higher centres of the brain.  It comprises of medulla oblongata and pons that controls many of the life sustaining process and baseline activities of skeletal muscles.  These comprise of caudal most portion of the brainstem.  It maintains relationship with fourth ventricle.

• Difference exists in the distribution of the white and grey matter in the brainstem. Grey matter of brainstem is represented by nuclear group separated from each other by fiber system.
• Largest representation of the brainstem is the reticular structures namely the brainstem reticular formation.  This extends from anterior end of the spinal cord to thalamus and hypothalamus.  This system controls the consciousness and perception, motor and sensory activity of an animal.