10 topics with brief reviews: definitions, key facts, and class questions.
In this section, we analyze the microscopic structure and development of the brain. You will trace the formation of structures from early embryogenesis to the mature cerebral cortex, diencephalon, telencephalon, and medulla oblongata, as well as the hypothalamus and cerebellum.
Special attention is paid to functional morphology and connections. We will examine the histological organization of the extrapyramidal system, spinocortical and spinocerebellar reflex arcs, as well as the mechanisms forming reflex responses to distant stimuli.
Practical classes and colloquia most frequently test the cytoarchitecture of the cerebral cortex and the layers of the cerebellar cortex, and also require drawing diagrams of reflex arcs. Study this material in detail: understanding the cellular composition of these zones is the key to meaningful memorization that will forever free you from blindly cramming conduction pathways.
What is the embryological origin of the neural tissue of the brain?
Neural tissue develops directly from the thickening walls of the brain vesicles, which form at the cranial end of the neural tube.
Which structures of the diencephalon are responsible for endocrine regulation?
The higher centers of endocrine regulation in the diencephalon include the pineal gland, hypothalamus, and hypophysis.
How does the ascending proprioceptive pathway differ from the pain sensitivity pathway?
Unlike the temperature and pain pathways, the axons of the first-order neurons of the proprioceptive pathway do not synapse in the grey matter of the spinal cord, but ascend directly within the dorsal funiculi to the medulla oblongata.
Where is the cortical center of the motor system located?
Unlike sensory pathways, this pathway terminates in the precentral gyrus. This is where the cortical center (acceptor) of afferent signals for the motor system is located.
What is the characteristic feature of the anterior spinocerebellar tract (Gowers' tract)?
Unlike the dorsal pathway, the ventral spinocerebellar tract (Gowers' tract) undergoes two decussations: the first occurs at the level of the spinal cord, and the second in the brainstem. As a result, the nerve fibers return to their original side.
Where is the reflex arc for the unconscious orienting response to sound and light closed?
Integration of the automatic reflex occurs at the level of the midbrain, in the nuclei of the tectal plate (tectum mesencephali).
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