![]() Most of the nuclei embedded in this structure have no precise cytoarchitectural boundaries 1, rendering functional studies of these RF nuclei a challenging task. In mammals, the RF comprises over 100 individual nuclei. Descending fibers from the RF, mainly reticulospinal tracts, project to the spinal cord to coordinate respiratory control, pain perception, posture maintenance, and muscular reflexes 6, 7, 8. Lesions to RAS result in impaired consciousness and even coma in some patients 4, 5. ![]() The midbrain RF together with its ascending tracts - also known as the reticular activating system (RAS) - project diffusely to the cerebellum, thalamus, cerebral cortex, and limbic system, functioning to promote the sleep-wake cycle, arousal, and consciousness 2, 3. ![]() ![]() This widespread projections allow the RF to act as a “command center” of the CNS. As its name suggested, the RF resembles a net-like structure composed of numerous ascending and descending nerve fibers along with various heterogeneous nuclei extending from the spinal cord to the thalamus 1. Located in the brainstem, the reticular formation (RF) has long been recognized as one of the most important part of the central nervous system (CNS).
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