Medulla Oblongata
Location: The medulla oblongata is located in the brainstem, anterior to the cerebellum.
Function: The medulla oblongata controls many autonomic functions. It helps transfer messages to the spinal cord and thalamus in the brain for the body and controls breathing, heart function, blood vessel function, digestion, sneezing, and swallowing. Sensory and motor neurons from the forebrain and midbrain travel through the medulla. It also controls relay of nerve signals, body movement coordination, respiration and circulation. |