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Recognize the Function of the Middle Brain and Its Structure

The brain is an important organ that consists of a large amount of nerve tissue. From several hemispheres of the brain, it turns out that midbrain function is an important element that acts as a connection point between the main brain regions. Midbrain is also called mesencephalon, this brain is located in the brain stem that is between the forebrain (forebrain) and hindbrain (hindbrain).

Functions and Structure of the Middle Brain

Like the forebrain and hindbrain, the midbrain has a very important function. Among the main functions of the midbrain is to be part of the central nervous system which is closely related to the following things:
  • Vision and hearing
  • Passion
  • Vigilance
  • Temperature regulation
  • Motor control, specifically eye and mouth movements
  • Deliver sensory messages (such as heat, pain, and loudness).
In its structure, the midbrain has three parts with different functions, including:
  • Tectum

  • The tectum is located above the midbrain which is composed of two protuberances called superior colliculi and inferior colliculi. Superior colliculi play a role in the initial visual process, before being transmitted to the occipital lobe, while inferior colliculi are more
  • Tegmentum

  • Tegmentum is located in front of the tectum. This Tegmentum consists of fiber channels and three parts which are distinguished by color, namely the red nucleus, gray periaqueductal, and substantia nigra. The red nucleus is more involved in coordinating sensorimotor information, gray periaqueductal is involved in suppressing pain, while the substantia nigra is more involved in mediating movement and motor coordination.
  • Cerebral pedunculus

  • The function of the cerebral hemisphere (cerebral peduncle) is as the main road that transports signals from the cortex to other parts of the central nervous system, and is very important in the coordination of the body.

Things That Can Damage Brain Function

Damage to brain function in general can also cause impaired midbrain function. One of the main causes is head injury due to impact. The level of damage to brain function due to injury varies greatly. Minor head injuries can cause nausea, headaches, confusion or memory problems. Whereas if there is a severe head injury, then the possibility of sufferers will experience cognitive, behavioral, and even physical disabilities. In addition to head injuries due to collisions, there are also other things that can cause damage to brain function, including:
  • Infection
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Tumor
  • Aneurysm
  • Neurological disease
  • Drug abuse
  • Poisoning or exposure to toxic substances
  • Choking, choking, or sinking.
It is important to maintain good health and live a good lifestyle. Use a seat belt when driving a car, or a helmet according to standards when driving on a motorcycle. It is hoped that this will prevent or reduce the risk of tissue damage and impaired midbrain function, and overall brain function. Do not hesitate to consult with a doctor if you or a relative has a disruption in the functions regulated by the midbrain.

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