Mesencephalon

Definition

The mesencephalon, or midbrain, is a part of the brainstem that serves as a bridge connecting the forebrain to the hindbrain and plays a critical role in motor movement, auditory and visual processing. It contains structures like the tectum and tegmentum which are involved in reflexes to visual and auditory stimuli.

Related terms

Brainstem:

The lower part of the brain that connects the cerebrum with the spinal cord and controls vital functions such as breathing and heart rate.

Tectum:

A dorsal part of the midbrain involved in visual and auditory reflexes, including orienting movements of the head.

Tegmentum:

The area within the midbrain that includes structures such as the red nucleus and substantia nigra, important for movement regulation and reward pathways