# The Brainstem --- The **brainstem** is the "oldest" part of the [[brain]], in that it is in control of the most fundamental and basic life-sustaining functions. This is the area of the brain that makes sure our lungs keeps moving and our heart keeps beating. It is made up of three main structures: - The [[pons]] is partly responsible for regulating our breathing, as well as containing other important nuclei. - The [[medulla oblongata]] also helps regulate our breathing, as well as our vasomotor controls. - The [[mesencephalon]], or the **midbrain**, which has a variety of functions such as coordinating auditory and visual reflexes, as well as regulating motor control and the release of dopamine. ![[brainstem.png]] (Note: the above image includes the [[diencephalon]] as well as the parts of the brainstem) ___