Reticular Activating System

A complex network of nuclei and nerve fibers that function to arouse the cerebrum. Portions of this network are located in the spinal cord, pons and midbrain, thalamus and hypothalamus. The principle functions of the reticular activating system are to keep the cerebrum in a state of alert consciousness and to selectively monitor sensory impulses perceived by the cerebrum. The reticular activating system also aids the cerebrum to maintain contraction of skeletal muscles