Brain stem, deep cerebral and diencephalic structures - Erler Zimmer

Brain stem, deep cerebral and diencephalic structures

This 3D model meticulously preserves various deep cerebral and diencephalic structures, extending to the proximal medulla oblongata, and it complements our series with the isolated brainstem (BRW10).
At the top-right of the 3D model, you'll find the lentiform (lenticular) nucleus intact, with the corona radiata of the internal capsule emerging around it. On the left side, the lentiform nucleus is absent, but you can see the caudate nucleus head and body situated medially on both sides, wrapping around the preserved internal capsule margins and leading to the amygdaloid bodies on each side. The thalami are bilaterally present, and there's a slight opening of the third ventricle in the midline, just below the epithalamus (pineal gland).

Anteriorly, the cerebral peduncles are visible, along with the optic nerves extending from the preserved chiasm and tracts. The interpeduncular region is exposed, revealing both the mammillary bodies and the sectioned infundibulum. Moving caudally from the interpeduncular region, you'll encounter the pons, preserving the origins of the middle cerebellar peduncles, as well as the origins of cranial nerves V, VII, and VIII. In the preserved portion of the medulla oblongata, there are prominent pyramids and olives.

Turning to the posterior view, you'll notice the superior and inferior colliculi positioned just above the sectioned superior cerebellar peduncles. The fourth ventricle is opened to expose the rhomboid fossa and various features of the floor, including the medial eminence, facial colliculus, hypoglossal triangle, the vestibular triangle, and the vagal triangle.