myelencephalon
Quick Summary
The myelencephalon is the posterior part of the developing vertebrate hindbrain, which in adults is composed of the medulla oblongata. It is one of the three primary divisions of the embryonic brain, alongside the forebrain and midbrain. The hindbrain, including the myelencephalon, is crucial for coordinating essential survival functions such as respiration, motor activity, and regulating sleep and wakefulness. The medulla oblongata, which develops from the myelencephalon, transmits signals between the spinal cord and higher brain regions and controls autonomic functions like heartbeat and breathing.1234
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