Midbrain

MIDBRAIN

What is Midbrain?

The midbrain is a portion of the central nervous system associated with vision, hearing, motor control, sleep/wake, alertness and temperature regulation.

During embryonic development, the midbrain arises from the second vesicle of the neural tube. Unlike the other two vesicles, the forebrain and hindbrain, the midbrain remains undivided for the remainder of neural development. It does not split into other brain areas.

Throughout embryonic development, the cells within the midbrain continually multiply and compress the still-forming cerebral aqueduct. Partial or total obstruction of the cerebral aqueduct during development can lead to congenital hydrocephalus.