Vincent and David present The Midbrain Location The

Vincent and David present The Midbrain

Location The mid brain or mesencephalon is located between the forebrain and hindbrain Structure It is the short, constricted portion which connects the pons and cerebellum with the Thalamencephalon and cerebral hemispheres.

Midbrain functions ❖ processes visual stimuli, integrates visual and auditory motor reflexes, and relays auditory information Also gives the brain pain-relief and is in control of a lot of movement

Drug effects on Midbrain The midbrain takes part in learning and reinforcing behaviors — such as eating and drinking — that lead to pleasure and to life preservation. This area thus plays an important role in drug dependence. Drugs can stimulate or fail to stimulate dopamine receptors. Cocaine and other drugs of abuse can alter dopamine function. Such drugs may have very different actions. The specific action depends on which dopamine receptors the drugs stimulate or block, and how well they mimic dopamine.

Diseases Parkinson's primarily affects neurons in the an area of the brain called the substantia nigra, controlled by the midbrain, helps smooth out body movements. Damage to the substantia nigra causes Parkinson's leaving a person unable to control movement normally.

Cases of Parkinson's ❖ ❖ ❖ Muhammad Ali- was diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 42. Doctors believe repeated punches to the head gave him Parkinson's Leads to difficulties with Ali such as sleeping and talking