Brain
Cerebral Ventricles
Fluid-filled chambers protecting the brain
Overview
The cerebral ventricles are four interconnected fluid-filled cavities within the brain: two lateral ventricles, the third ventricle (in the diencephalon), and the fourth ventricle (between the brainstem and cerebellum). They produce and circulate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which cushions the brain, removes waste, and transports nutrients and hormones.
Function
- Produce cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) via choroid plexus
- Cushion the brain from mechanical trauma
- Transport nutrients and waste products
- Maintain intracranial pressure
- Pathway for glymphatic cleaning of the brain during sleep
Key Facts
- About 500–600 ml of CSF is produced each day; total volume is ~150 ml (constantly renewed)
- Hydrocephalus results from CSF blockage or overproduction
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) samples CSF via the spinal subarachnoid space
- CSF is almost identical to blood plasma but with much less protein