2-Minute Neuroscience: Medulla Oblongata

In this video, I discuss the medulla oblongata. The medulla is part of the brainstem and is responsible for a number of important functions. It is involved with regulating cardiovascular and respiratory functions as well as a variety of reflexive actions like swallowing, coughing, and vomiting. It is also home to an assortment of important nuclei and cranial nerve nuclei. Finally, a number of tracts like the corticospinal and corticobulbartracts pass through the medulla on their way from the brainstem to the spinal cord and vice versa.