BIO 11 Lecture Notes - Lecture 15: Deep Cerebellar Nuclei, Foramen Magnum, Cerebral Cortex
Document Summary
Posterior and inferior portion of the brain. Functions with the cerebral cortex, basal nuclei, brainstem, and spinal cord in the coordination of movement. Composed of two cerebellar hemispheres connected by a structure called the vermis. Cerebellar surface contains ridges known as folia, which are separated by shallow sulci increase sa. Three different lobes: anterior lobe, posterior lobe, and small flocculonodular lobe. Outer layer of grey matter (cerebellar cortex) inner white matter in which clusters of gray matter - deep cerebellar nuclei are embedded. Branching white matter resembles tree branches - arbor vitae (tree of life) Cerebellar white matter converges into three tracts - cerebellar peduncles (connect cerebellum to brainstem. Most important - nuclei control basic homeostatic functions (maintain of heart rate & breathing rhythm) Controls numerous programmed reflexes - automatic responses to stimuli and functions in movement, sensation and maintaining alertness. Extends to the level of the foramen magnum of the occipital bone, after which it becomes the spinal cord.
