MESENCEPHALON Meaning and
Definition
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Mesencephalon is a term used to describe a specific region within the brain that is part of the midbrain. It is located at the uppermost part of the brainstem, just below the cerebral hemispheres, and above the pons and medulla oblongata. The mesencephalon is primarily responsible for relaying sensory and motor information between different parts of the brain.
Anatomically, the mesencephalon consists of various structures, including the tectum, tegmentum, cerebral peduncles, and the substantia nigra. The tectum, also known as the quadrigeminal plate, is responsible for processing visual and auditory information. The tegmentum is involved in functions like movement, coordination, and reflexes.
One of the key functions of the mesencephalon is to relay information from the sensory organs, such as the eyes and ears, to the higher brain areas. This information is then processed and used to generate appropriate responses and actions.
Disorders or damage to the mesencephalon can result in a range of symptoms, including motor problems, coordination difficulties, and sensory impairments. Conditions like Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders are often associated with malfunctioning of the mesencephalon.
Overall, the mesencephalon serves as a crucial link between the brain's lower structures and higher regions, playing an essential role in sensory processing, motor control, and the integration of various brain functions.
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The mid-brain, the second of the three primitive cerebral vesicles from which are developed the corpora quadrigemina, the crura cerebri, and the aqueduct of Sylvius.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MESENCEPHALON
- nesencephalon
- kesencephalon
- jesencephalon
- mwsencephalon
- mssencephalon
- mdsencephalon
- mrsencephalon
- m4sencephalon
- m3sencephalon
- meaencephalon
- mezencephalon
- mexencephalon
- medencephalon
- meeencephalon
- mewencephalon
- meswncephalon
- messncephalon
- mesdncephalon
- mesrncephalon
Etymology of MESENCEPHALON
The word mesencephalon is derived from two Greek roots: mesos, meaning middle, and enkephalos, meaning brain. Mesencephalon literally translates to middle brain.
Similar spelling word for MESENCEPHALON
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