Medulla

Medulla (also known as the medulla oblongata) is a structure located in the brainstem. It plays crucial roles in the body, including the regulation of respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Anatomy

The medulla is located in the lower part of the brainstem, just above the spinal cord and below the pons. It is a cone-shaped neuronal mass responsible for autonomic (involuntary) functions, ranging from vomiting to sneezing. The medulla contains the cardiac, respiratory, vomiting and vasomotor centers and deals with autonomic functions, such as breathing, heart rate and blood pressure.

Function

The medulla oblongata helps regulate breathing, heart and blood vessel function, digestion, sneezing, and swallowing. This part of the brain is a center for respiration and circulation. Sensory and motor neurons (nerve cells) from the forebrain and midbrain travel through the medulla.

Clinical significance

Damage to the medulla oblongata can be deadly, because the person will be unable to breathe, swallow, or perform other basic motor functions without help. The medulla oblongata is also the area of the brain that controls vomiting, so damage to this area can cause nausea and vomiting.

See also

• Brainstem
• Pons
• Spinal cord

External links

• Medulla Oblongata at Britannica