METENCEPHALON Meaning and
Definition
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The metencephalon is a region of the brainstem that forms a part of the developing brain during embryonic development. It is located in the middle portion of the brainstem, specifically posterior to the mesencephalon and rostral to the myelencephalon.
The metencephalon is comprised of two main structures: the cerebellum and the pons. The cerebellum is a large, highly folded structure at the base of the brain, responsible for coordinating voluntary movements, balance, and posture. It plays a crucial role in motor control and fine-tuning movement.
The pons, on the other hand, is a bridge-like structure that connects different regions of the brain, including the cerebellum, cerebrum, and medulla oblongata. It serves as a relay center and plays a vital part in the transmission of signals between various parts of the brain.
The metencephalon is responsible for numerous crucial functions in the human body. Its components contribute to the regulation of motor functions, coordination, balance, and the integration of sensory information. Additionally, it is involved in controlling involuntary actions such as respiration, sleep, and arousal.
Overall, the metencephalon is an integral part of the brainstem, governing essential functions that contribute to overall physical coordination, movement, and the regulation of vital bodily processes.
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1. Hind-brain, the anterior of the two divisions of the rhombencephalon, or posterior primitive cerebral vesicle; from it are developed the pons and cerebellum and the poutine part of the fourth ventricle. 2. Cerebellum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METENCEPHALON
- netencephalon
- ketencephalon
- jetencephalon
- mwtencephalon
- mstencephalon
- mdtencephalon
- mrtencephalon
- m4tencephalon
- m3tencephalon
- mefencephalon
- megencephalon
- meyencephalon
- me6encephalon
- me5encephalon
- metwncephalon
- metsncephalon
- metdncephalon
- metrncephalon
- met4ncephalon
Etymology of METENCEPHALON
The word "metencephalon" is derived from the Greek roots "meta", meaning "after" or "beyond", and "enkephalos", meaning "brain". In anatomy, the term "metencephalon" refers to a region of the brain that develops from the neural tube during embryonic development. It includes the cerebellum and pons, which are located in the posterior part of the brainstem.
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