Medullary striae of fourth ventricle

Gray709

The medullary striae of the fourth ventricle are a series of white matter fibers located in the brainstem. These striae are found in the floor of the fourth ventricle, which is part of the hindbrain and plays a crucial role in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation.

Anatomy

The medullary striae are situated transversely across the floor of the fourth ventricle, extending from the median sulcus to the lateral recesses. They are composed of axonal fibers that originate from the arcuate nuclei and project to the cerebellum via the inferior cerebellar peduncle. These fibers are involved in the coordination of motor activities and sensory processing.

Function

The primary function of the medullary striae is to facilitate communication between the arcuate nuclei and the cerebellum. This connection is essential for the integration of sensory information and the coordination of motor functions. The medullary striae also play a role in the modulation of auditory and vestibular signals.

Clinical Significance

Lesions or damage to the medullary striae can result in various neurological deficits, including impaired motor coordination and balance issues. Such damage may be observed in conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, or tumors affecting the brainstem.

Related Structures

• Fourth ventricle
• Arcuate nuclei
• Inferior cerebellar peduncle
• Cerebellum
• Brainstem

See Also

• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Hindbrain
• Motor coordination
• Sensory processing
• Auditory system
• Vestibular system