Question

Does the medulla control sleep?

Answer 1

Medulla oblongata

1. The lowest region of the brain and brainstem is the medulla oblongata, often known as the medulla.
2. The medulla oblongata connects with the spinal cord at the foramen magnum opening at the base of the skull and is continuous posteriorly with the midbrain via the pons.
3. The medulla oblongata is essential for signal transmission between the spinal cord and upper brain regions as well as for controlling autonomic functions like breathing and heartbeat
4. Neurons in the medulla also control arousal and sleep, transfer somatic sensory data from internal organs, and regulate movement and sleep.