Everything about The Reticular Activating System totally explained
The
reticular activating system (or ARAS, for Ascending Reticular Activating System) is the name given to the part of the
brain (the
reticular formation and its connections) believed to be the center of
arousal and
motivation in animals (including humans).
Functions
The activity of this system is crucial for maintaining the state of consciousness. It is situated at the core of the
brain stem between the myelencephalon (
medulla oblongata) and mesencephalon (
midbrain).
It is involved with the
circadian rhythm; damage can lead to permanent
coma. It is thought to be the area affected by many
psychotropic drugs.
General anesthetics work through their effect on the reticular formation.
Fibers from the reticular formation are also vital in controlling respiration, cardiac rhythms, and other essential functions.
Although the functioning of this system is a prerequisite for consciousness to occur, it's generally assumed that this system's role is indirect and it does not, by itself, generate consciousness. Instead, its unique anatomical and physiological characteristics ensure that the
thalamocortical system fire in such a way that's compatible with conscious experience.
Clinical significance
The reticular activating system has received attention from
neuroscientists interested in various pathological conditions affecting behaviour, such as
Alzheimer's Disease. More recently, results of research on the area has prompted extrapolations from the data into
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The reticular activating system is believed to cause ADD and ADHD due to the imbalance of norepinephrine in the cells .
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