Pontine micturition center

Pontine Micturition Center

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The Pontine Micturition Center (PMC) is located in the brainstem.

The Pontine Micturition Center (PMC), also known as Barrington's nucleus, is a collection of neurons situated in the pons, a part of the brainstem. This center plays a crucial role in the regulation of urination, a process known as micturition.

Anatomy

The PMC is located in the dorsolateral pons in the brainstem. It is named after British neurologist James Alan Barrington who first described it in 1925. The neurons in this center are primarily cholinergic, meaning they use the neurotransmitter acetylcholine to send signals.

Function

The primary function of the PMC is to control the process of micturition. It does this by coordinating the activity of the detrusor muscle of the bladder and the urethral sphincter. When the bladder is full, sensory signals are sent to the PMC. In response, the PMC sends signals to relax the urethral sphincter and contract the detrusor muscle, leading to urination.

Clinical Significance

Damage or dysfunction of the PMC can lead to various urinary disorders. These include urinary incontinence, where there is involuntary leakage of urine, and urinary retention, where there is difficulty in passing urine. Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke can also affect the functioning of the PMC.

See Also

• Micturition
• Urinary system
• Brainstem