A large network of neural tissue within the brainstem involved in behavioral arousal and sleep-wake cycles. go to glossary index
a diffuse network of neurons, extending from the hindbrain through the midbrain and into the forebrain, that helps maintain vigilance and an optimal level of brain arousal. (81)
Area of brainstem with diffuse network of neurones that seems to be involved in monitoring flow of information from spinal cord and cortex, activation of cortex and setting levels of cortical awareness. Affected by anaesthetic and other drugs.
Network of nuclei and fibres in the central core of the brain stem that is important in arousing the cortex and maintaining alertness, in processing incoming sensory stimulation, and in adjusting spinal reflexes.
refers to a series of poorly defined structures in the brainstem that have diffuse projections both rostrally to the cerebral hemispheres (particularly the thalamus) and caudally to the spinal cord
A diffuse network of gray matter that extends the entire length of the brain stem.
Groups of cells and fibers arranged in a diffuse network throughout the brain stem. They fill and connect the tracts which ascend and descend through this area. They are important in controlling or influencing alertness, wakefulness, sleeping, and some other reflexes.
a complex neural network in the central core of the brainstem; monitors the state of the body and functions in such processes as arousal and sleep and attention and muscle tone
A network of neurons throughout the brain that keep a person awake. Damage to this causes a disorder called narcolepsy in which a person falls asleep suddenly during the daytime and cannot resist the sleep. For some people, excitement can cause a narcoleptic attack. Dogs have recently been used as an animal model for locating the narcoleptic gene. ( Narcolepsy in Dogs)
Is scattered like a cloud throughout most of the length of the brainstem. This group of nuclei receives nerves which innervate the face. These axons play an important role in arousing and maintaining consciousness. Visual, or acoustical stimuli, and mental activities can stimulate this system to maintain attention and alertness.
a set of interconnected nuclei that are found throughout the brain stem; the dorsal tegmental nuclei are located in the midbrain, the central tegmental nuclei are located in the pons, and the central and inferior nuclei are located in the medulla; the reticular formation has two components, the ascending reticular formation and the descending reticular formation
A diffuse network of neurons in the midbrain and hindbrain, involved in a variety of sensory and motor functions.
a network of nerve cells in the brainstem that are involved in maintaining sleep or wakefulness.
The reticular formation is a part of the brain which is involved in stereotypical actions, such as walking, sleeping, and lying down. It is absolutely essential for the basic functions of life and is phylogenetically one of the oldest portions of the brain.