Arcuate nucleus (medulla)

Nucleus in the medulla oblongata of the brainstem

The arcuate nucleus of the medulla is a cluster of neurons located in the medulla oblongata, which is part of the brainstem. This nucleus is involved in the regulation of several autonomic functions and plays a role in the control of cardiovascular and respiratory activities.

Anatomy

The arcuate nucleus is situated on the ventral surface of the medulla oblongata, near the pyramids of the medulla. It is composed of small groups of neurons that are closely associated with the inferior olivary nucleus. The arcuate nucleus is considered to be a continuation of the pontine nuclei and is involved in the modulation of signals between the cerebral cortex and the cerebellum.

Function

The arcuate nucleus of the medulla is primarily involved in the regulation of autonomic functions. It plays a crucial role in the control of breathing and heart rate. The neurons in this nucleus receive input from various parts of the brain and are involved in the integration of sensory information related to the body's internal environment.

Cardiovascular Regulation

The arcuate nucleus contributes to the regulation of cardiovascular functions by influencing the vasomotor center in the medulla. It helps modulate blood pressure and heart rate in response to changes in the body's physiological state.

Respiratory Control

In terms of respiratory control, the arcuate nucleus is involved in the rhythmic generation of breathing patterns. It interacts with other respiratory centers in the brainstem to ensure proper ventilation and gas exchange.

Connections

The arcuate nucleus has extensive connections with other parts of the brain. It receives afferent fibers from the cerebral cortex, hypothalamus, and other brainstem nuclei. Efferent fibers from the arcuate nucleus project to the cerebellum, thalamus, and various autonomic centers in the brainstem.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction of the arcuate nucleus can lead to disturbances in autonomic regulation, potentially resulting in conditions such as hypertension or respiratory disorders. Understanding the role of the arcuate nucleus is important for developing treatments for these conditions.

Related pages

• Medulla oblongata
• Brainstem
• Autonomic nervous system
• Respiratory center

Gallery

• 

  Diagram of the aortic sinus, showing the location of the arcuate nucleus in relation to the cardiovascular system.

• 

  Arcuate nucleus (medulla)

• 

  Arcuate nucleus (medulla)

• 

  Arcuate nucleus (medulla)

• 

  Arcuate nucleus (medulla)