Cerebral peduncle
Overview
The cerebral peduncle, by most classifications, is everything in the mesencephalon except the tectum. The region includes the midbrain tegmentum, crus cerebri, substantia nigra and pretectum. The peduncles are also known as the crus cerebri. There are numerous nerve tracts located within this section of the brainstem. Of note, in the cerebral peduncular loop fibers from motor areas of the brain project to the cerebral peduncle and then project to various thalamic nuclei.
Inasmuch as the peduncles are an anatomic landmark, for details regarding the function of this area interested readers are referred to the individual referenced articles. On a broad scale, though, this area contains many nerve tracts conveying motor information to and from the brain to the rest of the body.
Additional images
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Scheme showing the connections of the several parts of the brain.
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Superficial dissection of brain-stem. Lateral view.
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Dissection of brain-stem. Lateral view.
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Deep dissection of brain-stem. Lateral view.
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Dissection showing the projection fibers of the cerebellum.
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Median sagittal section of brain.
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The left optic nerve and the optic tracts.
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Upper part of medulla spinalis and hind- and mid-brains; posterior aspect, exposed in situ.
