Hindbrain : Its Anatomy & Function - Practice Questions & MCQ

Hindbrain or Rhombencephalon

The hindbrain consists of cerebellum pons varoli and medulla oblongata
It is responsible for some of the oldest and most primitive body functions.

Medulla Oblongata:
The medulla oblongata sits at the transition zone between the brain and the spinal cord. 
Medulla oblongata receives and integrates signals from spinal cord and sends resulting signals to the cerebellum and thalamus. 
It contains centres that regulate heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, swallowing, salivation, sneezing, vomiting and coughing and other involuntary movements.

Pons Varolii:

• The pons connects the medulla oblongata with the midbrain region.
• It also relays signals from the forebrain to the cerebellum. 
• It houses the control centers for respiration and inhibitory functions. 
• The pneumotaxic centre limits inspiration.
• The cerebellum is attached to the dorsal side of the pons

Cerebellum:

• It is located behind the medulla oblongata and pons.
• It consists of two lateral cerebellar hemispheres and central worm ­shaped part, the vermis.
• The cerebellum has its grey matter on the outside, comprising three layers of cells and fibres. 
• The grey matter of cerebellum exhibits tree-like branches of white matter and these are called as 'arbor vitae' or 'Tree of life'
• The middle layer contains character­istically large flask shaped Purkinje cells. 
• The cerebellum also has Golgi cells, basket cells and granule cells.
• It coordinates skeletal muscles to produce smooth, graceful motions.
• The cerebellum controls rapid muscular activities, such as running, typing and even talking. 
• All activities of the cerebellum are involuntary, but may involve learning in their early stages. 
• Alcohol affects the cerebellum. Alcohol is a depressant, it inter­feres with the functions of the cerebellum.

Brain Stem: The midbrain, pons varolii and medulla oblongata are collectively called the brain stem, connecting the fore brain and spinal cord.