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 medulla oblongata Also called the myelencephalon, the lowest part of the brainstem. The medulla oblongata looks like a swelling at the tip of the spinal cord; it is continuous with the spinal cord above the level of the foramen magnum of the occipital bone. Besides forming the major pathway for nerve impulses entering and leaving the skull, the medulla oblongata regulates the reflex responses that control breathing, heart beat, blood pressure, and other essential involuntary functions. It also contains part of the reticular formation that plays a role in arousal states, such as wakefulness and attention, and it gives rise to cranial nerves VI–XII. General anesthesia probably works by depressing medulla activity. 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