The brain and spinal cord

The brain is protected by a hard, thick cranium. It is packed with millions of nerve cells (= neurones) that enable complex human behaviour. Most of it is the cerebrum, which is highly folded and the centre is a cavity (as shown) containing cerebro-spinal fluid, a transporting medium as well as a mechanical cushion. Ventrally the brain extends a spinal cord into the lumen of the vertebral column.  [Back to Human anatomy menu]