The brainSpec 4.5.2.2
The brain controls complex behaviour. It is made of billions of interconnected neurones and has different regions that carry out different functions.
| Region | Function |
|---|---|
| Cerebral cortex | Consciousness, intelligence, memory and language |
| Cerebellum | Coordinates muscular activity and balance |
| Medulla | Controls unconscious activities such as heart rate and breathing |
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Investigating the brain and treating brain disorders
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Neuroscientists have mapped regions of the brain to particular functions in three main ways.
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- Studying patients with brain damage and seeing which abilities are lost.
- Electrically stimulating different parts of the brain and seeing what happens.
- Using MRI scanning techniques.
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The complexity and delicacy of the brain makes investigating and treating brain disorders very difficult. It is made of billions of interconnected neurones, and its tissue is easily damaged during investigation or treatment. Any procedure on the brain or nervous system has benefits and risks that must be weighed up.
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