Cerebral ventricles: characteristics and functions

Our brain is a complex organ, made up of a large number of different structures that allow the performance of very different functions.

One of the various systems that are part of the brain and that allow its structuring and maintenance is the cerebral ventricular system, that is, the brain ventricles network.

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The ventricular system: definition and origin

The cerebral ventricles are a series of structures located inside the brain that are interconnected forming the so-called vestibular system. The ventricles themselves would be enlargements of said system that configure a series of cavities lined with ependyma.

Within the ventricular system most of the cerebrospinal fluid originates (It is estimated that slightly more than 60%), specifically in the ependymal structures and cells of the choroid plexuses.

The ventricular system originates in the fetus during the third trimester week of pregnancy, evolving from the central canal of the neural tube. It is made up of a total of four ventricles and the different channels that communicate them.

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Components of the ventricular system

There are a total of four cerebral ventricles, interconnected by various channels and openings.

At the top and just below the hard bodywe find the lateral ventricles, a pair of twin ventricles found throughout the cerebral hemispheres. It is in these ventricles that we can mostly find the choroid plexuses, where most of the cerebrospinal fluid is generated.

These communicate through the interventricular or Monro orifice with the third ventricle, which is located below the thalamus. Finally, the third and fourth ventricles (located between the brainstem and the cerebellum) communicate through the cerebral or Silvio aqueduct.

The fourth ventricle connects to the spinal cordthrough the ependymal canal, which runs through the entire medulla and allows cerebrospinal fluid to flow through it to its end in what is known as the terminal ventricle.

The fourth ventricle also connects through the Luschka and Magendie orifices with the arachnoid, thus allowing cerebrospinal fluid to distribute throughout the brain.

Functions of the cerebral ventricles

The cerebral ventricles and the ventricular system in general may seem like a developmental residue that has no too many functions, but in reality these are elements of great importance in maintaining health and condition of the brain.

Some of the main functions they have are the following.

1. Production of cerebrospinal fluid

It is the main function of the brain ventricles. Although it is also secreted in small amounts by other structures such as the subarachnoid space, in general most of the cerebrospinal fluid that we possess is secreted by the choroid plexuses of the system ventricular.

This fluid provides a means by which the brain eliminates waste from your activity while creating a stable environment for the functioning of neurons, and even contribute to nourish and facilitate the functioning of cells. It also allows the brain to float, reducing its weight, while helping to protect it from external agents and damage. Lastly, it allows the internal pressure level of the brain to remain stable.

2. They help keep the brain healthy

The choroid plexuses, in addition to producing cerebrospinal fluid, help prevent harmful external substances from affecting it and reaching the rest of the brain through it, so that help keep the brain healthy.

3. Maintenance of the shape and structure of the brain

The cerebral ventricles can be greatly expanded according to the needs of the body. Although it may seem like a minor function, it allows maintaining the structure of the brain and its interconnections. In addition, the cerebrospinal fluid that is produced in them helps to keep the brain floating and reduce the level of intracranial pressure.

Alterations produced by various disorders

As we have mentioned, one of the functions of the ventricles is maintain the shape and stability of the whole brain. In fact, in various disorders in which neuronal mass loss occurs, the brain ventricles expand to occupy free space. Some of the alterations that cause some type of effect on the brain ventricles are listed below.

Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease produces throughout its development a deterioration and death of a large number of neurons, decreasing neuronal density as the disorder progresses. The vacated space is filled by the ventricles, which expand to occupy the place.

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Schizophrenia

Studies have shown that many people with schizophrenia have larger ventricles.

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a disorder characterized by excessive production of cerebrospinal fluid, a imbalance between production and reabsorption or due to poor circulation of this through the ventricles or their interconnections. It is a very serious problem that can cause severe sequelae or even death of the subject due to compression of brain structures.

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Ventriculitis

It is a disorder that relies on inflammation of the cerebral ventricles. As with meningitis, this inflammation can be dangerous due to the pressure exerted by the ventricles against the rest of the nervous system. In addition, infection of the ventricles can generate alterations in the cerebrospinal fluid or the vascular system, which can end up causing encephalitis.