ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z           HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site brainstem The part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord. It has three main components: the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata. The brainstem controls functions such as breathing, blood pressure, body temperature, heart rhythms, hunger and thirst, and sleep patterns. It is also the part of the brain that connects the forebrain and the cerebellum with the spinal cord. All the nerve fibers leaving the brain to go to the limbs and trunk of the body pass through here. Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP