Involuntary functions like gastric secretions are controlled by

Involuntary functions like gastric secretions are controlled by medulla oblongata.

The medulla oblongata, a vital part of the brainstem, serves as a bridge between the spinal cord and higher brain regions. It has both sensory and motor tracts. Among its many functions, the medulla houses key control centers, including the cardiovascular center, which regulates heart rate and blood vessel diameter, as well as the medullary respiratory center, which plays a pivotal role in controlling breathing. Moreover, it encompasses various sensory nuclei, such as the gracile nucleus, cuneate nucleus, gustatory nucleus, cochlear nuclei, and vestibular nuclei, all contributing to sensory pathways to the brain. Additionally, the medulla hosts the inferior olivary nucleus, which provides the cerebellum with instructions for fine-tuning muscle activity during the acquisition of new motor skills. Within this region, numerous nuclei are responsible for coordinating essential functions like vomiting, swallowing, sneezing, coughing, and hiccupping. Furthermore, the medulla accommodates nuclei associated with several cranial nerves, including the vestibulocochlear (VIII), glossopharyngeal (IX), vagus (X), accessory (XI), and hypoglossal (XII) nerves. In sum, the medulla oblongata is a multifunctional center critical for maintaining various physiological processes and sensory functions in the human body.