Which part of the brain stem is involved in basic living functions such as heart rate and breathing?

The medulla is the part of the brain stem that plays a crucial role in regulating fundamental life-sustaining functions, including heart rate and breathing. It is located at the base of the brain stem, connecting the brain to the spinal cord. The medulla houses vital centers that automatically control these functions, making it essential for maintaining homeostasis in the body.

The cerebellum is primarily responsible for coordination and balance, rather than regulating autonomic functions. The pons, which lies above the medulla, also contributes to many functions, including the regulation of sleep and respiration, but it does not directly control heart rate and breathing like the medulla does. The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information but does not have a direct role in managing autonomic bodily functions.