ajupõhja

Ajupõhja is an Estonian term that translates to "brain base" or "brain stem." It refers to the lower part of the brain, which is crucial for regulating essential life functions. This region connects the cerebrum and cerebellum to the spinal cord.

The ajupõhja is composed of several distinct parts, including the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata. Each of these components plays a vital role in maintaining consciousness, sleep-wake cycles, breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Damage to the ajupõhja can have severe or fatal consequences due to its control over these involuntary physiological processes.

Functionally, the ajupõhja acts as a relay center for nerve signals traveling between the brain and the rest of the body. It also houses nuclei that control cranial nerves, which are responsible for sensory and motor functions of the head and neck. Understanding the ajupõhja is fundamental in neurology and medicine for diagnosing and treating a wide range of neurological disorders.