Striae medullares

Striae medullares are a group of anatomical structures found in the human brain. They are part of the rhomboid fossa, which is located in the fourth ventricle of the brain. The striae medullares are made up of transversely running fibers that cross the floor of the fourth ventricle.

Anatomy

The striae medullares are composed of a bundle of fibers that originate from the arcuate nucleus of the medulla oblongata. These fibers cross the midline and ascend to the cerebellum via the inferior cerebellar peduncle. The striae medullares are visible on the surface of the fourth ventricle as a series of small, parallel lines.

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Striae medullares seen on the floor of the fourth ventricle (labelled as 'Striae medullares')

Function

The striae medullares play a crucial role in the neural circuitry of the brain. They are involved in the transmission of information from the cerebral cortex to the cerebellum, which is essential for the coordination of voluntary movements.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or damage to the striae medullares can lead to a variety of neurological disorders. For example, lesions in this area can result in ataxia, a condition characterized by a lack of voluntary coordination of muscle movements.

See also

• Medulla oblongata
• Fourth ventricle
• Inferior cerebellar peduncle
• Arcuate nucleus