Midbrain Function

Midbrain connects the hindbrain to the forebrain. It is a part of the brainstem. Midbrain develops from the mesencephalon of the neural tube. It contains relay nuclei for two of the cranial nerves, viz. the oculomotor and trochlear nerves, which are responsible for processing auditory and visual information. It regulates eye and eyelid movement.

What is Midbrain?

It is the middle part of the brain and is located between the thalamus and pons. The midbrain is also known as the mesencephalon. It connects pons to the forebrain. It forms the brain stem along with the hindbrain. It is the smallest part of the brainstem and is around 2 cm in length. The main parts of the midbrain are the tectum, the cerebral aqueduct, the tegmentum, and the cerebral peduncles.

• Tectum – It is the dorsal part of the midbrain that has four rounded lobes or colliculi that are called the corpora quadrigemina. The superior colliculi are involved in processing visual signals. The inferior colliculi are involved in processing auditory signals.
• Cerebral aqueduct – It is the canal that passes through the midbrain. It connects the third and fourth cerebral ventricles.
• Cerebral peduncle – It consists of thick nerve fibre tracts connecting the forebrain to the hindbrain.
• Tegmentum – It is located anterior to the tectum. It contains various nerve tracts, reticular formation and cranial nerve nuclei. The two main regions are the red nucleus and the periaqueductal gray. It is involved in motor coordination.

Midbrain Function

The main functions of the midbrain are as follows:

• The midbrain consists of the centre for visual and auditory reflexes. It is involved in the processing of visual and auditory information.
• It regulates eye movement and pupil dilation.
• It is involved in regulating muscle movement and motor control.
• Together with the other parts of the brainstem, it controls vital autonomic functions. It is involved in regulating pain, mood, breathing, alertness, etc.

This was all about the midbrain and its functions. Learn more about other related concepts for NEET, only at BYJU’S.

Also Check:

• Structure Of Ear
• Function Of Pons
• Medulla Oblongata
• Thalamus Function
• Process Of Neural Communication
• Flashcards Of Biology For NEET Neural Control And Coordination