Hindbrain: Definition, Meaning, Function, Structures, Diagram, Topics

What Is Hindbrain?

The hindbrain can also be referred to as the rhombencephalon, which is defined as a structure located at the bottom of the human skull. The hindbrain consists of the medulla oblongata, the pons, and the cerebellum. It is responsible for controlling activities of life, such as the heart rate, respiration, balance, and coordination.

Structure Of The Hindbrain

The structure of the hindbrain is as follows:

Medulla Oblongata

• The medulla oblongata is an area that controls systematic functions such as respiration, heart rate, and blood pressure.

• It also houses centres for reflexes like those of coughing, sneezing, and swallowing.

Pons

• The pons lie across the different components of the brain. They constitute a bridge of sorts between the cerebrum and the cerebellum.

• It houses some of the functions controlling sleep, respiration, and facial expressions.

Cerebellum

• The cerebellum is a repertory of coordinates for voluntary movement and coordination of balance as well as posture control.

• It has participation in motor learning and precision.

Functions Of The Hindbrain

The Functions of the hindbrain are as follows:

Autonomic Regulation

• The hindbrain regulates the autonomic functions of the body requiring the sustenance of life and heart rate.

• These are mainly regulated by the medulla oblongata.

Motor Coordination

• The cerebellum can coordinate voluntary movements. It has a part in balance and posture.

• It refines and discriminates proper movements and motor learning.

Sensory & Motor Relay

• The function of the pons is to relay sensory and motor information between the cerebrum and cerebellum.

• It facilitates the integration and coordination of multiple functions of the brain.

Hindbrain Connections with Other Brain Regions

The hindbrain is connected to the other parts of the brain through:

Connection To Spinal Cord

• The hindbrain bridges the gap between the brain and the spinal cord for the proper relay of sensory and motor signals.

• It is necessary for reflexes and voluntary actions.

Integration with Midbrain

• The hindbrain is integrated into the midbrain in controlling the level of arousal sleep and reflex actions.

• Two processes occur here which facilitate the integration of the sensory and motor actions.

Key Takeaways (NEET High-Yield Notes)

• The components of the hindbrain are the medulla oblongata, pons, and the cerebellum.

• It controls autonomic activities like heartbeats, breathing, and digestion.

• It assists in the coordination of movements, including those related to balance, motor coordination, and postural coordination.

Hindbrain NEET MCQs (With Answers & Explanations)

Important questions asked in NEET from this topic are:

• Structure of hindbrain

• Functions of the hindbrain

Practice Questions for NEET

Q1. Which of the following is a part of our brain?

1. Corpora allata

2. Corpora adiposa

3. Corpora cardiaca

4. Corpora quadrigemina

Correct answer: 4) Corpora quadrigemina

Explanation:

The corpora quadrigemina, located in the dorsal midbrain, consists of four rounded lobes—the superior colliculi, which process visual information and control reflexive eye movements, and the inferior colliculi, which handle auditory processing and reflexes. These structures are crucial for sensory integration, wherein the midbrain, along with the hindbrain (pons and medulla oblongata), forms the brainstem, a vital structure that connects the brain to the spinal cord and regulates essential functions like breathing, heartbeat, and reflex actions.

Hence the correct answer is option 4) Corpora quadrigemina.

Q2. The cerebral aqueduct, which is surrounded by grey matter, separates the

1. tegmentum from the crus cerebri

2. tegmentum from the tectum

3. brainstem and spinal cord.

4. crus cerebri from the tectum

Correct answer: 4) Regulation of body temperature.

Explanation:

The tectum (dorsal part) and tegmentum (ventral part) are the two divisions of the midbrain that are separated by the grey matter-enclosed cerebral aqueduct. It permits the flow of cerebrospinal fluid between the third ventricle, which is situated in the diencephalon, and the fourth ventricle, which is situated in the hindbrain.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2)tegmentum from the tectum

Q3. The ventral part of midbrain is referred to as the

1. Cerebral aqueduct,

2. Tectum

3. Crus cerebri

4. Cri cerebro

Correct answer: 3) Crus cerebri

Explanation:

The cerebral hemispheres are connected with the cerebellum with the help of the midbrain which lies between the pons and forebrain. The most dorsal part of the midbrain is called the rectum and the ventral part is referred to as the crus cerebri.

Hence, the correct answer is option 3) Crus cerebri.

Also Read:

• MCQs on Hindbrain

• Synapse

• Sympathetic Nervous System

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