The Medulla Oblongata: Also called medulla, the lowest part of the brain and the lowest portion of the brain-stem. The medulla oblongata is connected by the pons to the midbrain and is continuous posteriorly with the spinal cord, with which it merges at the opening (foramen magnum) at the base of the skull.It is a very important part in the brain.
The Location: The medulla oblongata is located in the brain-stem, anterior to the cerebellum. Disorders: -Medulla Oblongata lesion -Paralysis
The Function: The medulla oblongata is a portion of the hindbrain that controls autonomic functions such as breathing, digestion, heart and blood vessel function, swallowing and sneezing. Motor and sensory neurons from the midbrain and forebrain travel through the medulla. As a part of the brainstem, the medulla oblongata helps in the transferring of messages between various parts of the brain and the spinal cord.
Control of Autonomic Functions
Relay of Nerve Signals Between the Brain and Spinal Cord