Midbrain (Mesencephalon)

The most superior part of the brainstem, connecting the forebrain to the hindbrain, involved in motor control, sensory processing (especially visual and auditory reflexes), and regulating states of consciousness.

Key Functions:

• Contains nuclei involved in visual reflexes (superior colliculus) and auditory reflexes (inferior colliculus).
• Plays a role in motor control (substantia nigra, red nucleus).
• Regulates states of consciousness and arousal.
• Houses cranial nerve nuclei (III, IV).

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Brainstem (superior part of)
• Superior Colliculus
• Inferior Colliculus
• Substantia Nigra
• Red Nucleus
• Periaqueductal Gray (PAG)
• Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA)
• Motor Control, Sensory Reflexes (key for)