Answer:
The brainstem regulates vital cardiac and respiratory functions and acts as a vehicle for sensory information.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Describe the functions of the brainstem
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Key Points
In vertebrate anatomy, the brainstem is the posterior part of the brain adjoining, and structurally continuous with, the spinal cord.
Though small, the brainstem is an extremely important part of the brain, as the nerve connections from the motor and sensory systems of the cortex pass through it to communicate with the peripheral nervous system.
The brainstem also plays an important role in the regulation of cardiac and respiratory function, consciousness, and the sleep cycle.
The brainstem consists of the medulla oblongata, pons, and midbrain.
