reticular formation

noun
1.
a network of neurons in the brainstem involved in consciousness, regulation of breathing, the transmission of sensory stimuli to higher brain centers, and the constantly shifting muscular activity that supports the body against gravity.
Origin
1885-90
Examples from the web for reticular formation
  • The motor root arises from a nucleus which lies deeply in the reticular formation of the lower part of the pons.
reticular formation in Medicine

reticular formation n.
A massive but vaguely delimited neural apparatus composed of closely intermingled gray and white matter, extending the length of the spinal cord and into the diencephalon, and having a dominant role in the central control of autonomic and endocrine functions, bodily posture, skeletomuscular reflex activity, and general behavioral states. Also called reticular substance.

reticular formation in Science
reticular formation
  (rĭ-tĭk'yə-lər)   
A complex network of neurons and axons that is located throughout the brainstem. The reticular formation regulates consciousness, sleep, and wakefulness.