Which brain region is involved in regulating respiration and cardiovascular autonomic functions?

• A. Cerebellum
• B. Pons
• C. Medulla oblongata
• D. Thalamus

Answer: (C)

Autonomic regulation of breathing and heart function is controlled by nuclei in the medulla oblongata. The medullary respiratory centers set the basic breathing rhythm, with specialized groups driving inspiration and coordinating expiration, while the cardiovascular center adjusts heart rate and blood vessel tone. It also integrates input from chemical and baroreceptors to maintain stable breathing and blood pressure. The pons helps modulate breathing but is not the primary controller, and the cerebellum or thalamus are involved in coordination and sensory relay rather than autonomic regulation. So the medulla oblongata is the brain region responsible for these autonomic functions.