Rostral ventrolateral medulla

Rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) is a region of the medulla oblongata, a part of the brainstem, that plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure and respiration. The RVLM contains neurons that are involved in the control of sympathetic nervous system activity.

Anatomy

The rostral ventrolateral medulla is located in the ventrolateral part of the medulla oblongata, rostral to the spinal cord. It is adjacent to the pyramids and the olive.

Function

The RVLM is primarily responsible for the maintenance of sympathetic tone, which is essential for the regulation of blood pressure. It contains neurons that project to the spinal cord and influence the activity of sympathetic preganglionic neurons. These neurons are constantly active (i.e., they exhibit tonic activity), which maintains a certain level of sympathetic outflow and thus contributes to the resting level of blood pressure.

In addition to its role in blood pressure regulation, the RVLM also plays a role in the control of respiration. It contains neurons that project to the respiratory centers in the medulla and pons, influencing their activity.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the function of the RVLM can lead to disorders of blood pressure regulation, such as hypertension. For example, increased activity of the RVLM has been associated with essential hypertension, a common form of high blood pressure.

Furthermore, damage to the RVLM due to stroke or other neurological disorders can result in dysautonomia, a group of conditions characterized by abnormal functioning of the autonomic nervous system.

See also

• Medulla oblongata
• Sympathetic nervous system
• Blood pressure
• Respiration