The Brainstem Reticular Formation and the Monoamine System

The reticular formation (RF) consists of an extensive aggregation of several subtypes of interconnected neurons that extends throughout the brainstem tegmentum. The reticular pathways integrate sensory, visceral, limbic, and motor functions, and project throughout the central nervous system (CNS). Reticular circuits exert important influences on autonomic regulation of vital organ systems, behavior, somatic motor activities, sleep cycles, alertness, and pain modulation.