Brain Meninges

The meninges are three layers of membranes that surround and enclose the brain. Meninges not only provide support and protection but also connect the brain and spinal cord to the skull and spinal canal. The meninges of the brain consists of three layers including dura mater, arachnoid and pia mater. These are discussed in detail as follows:

• Dura mater: It forms the outer most layer of the meninges and is closest to the skull. The brain’s dura mater has two layers: the periosteal which is attached to the skull and the meningeal layer adherent to the brain. The brain dura mater forms dural folds. It is tough and fibrous membrane that act as a protective barrier for the brain and supports the venous sinus.
• Arachnoid mater: It is situated between the dura mater and the pia mater. It is thin, transparent and avascular membrane that have spiderweb-like trabeculae that connect it to the pia mater. Beneath the arachnoid mater lies the subarachnoid space, which contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
• Pia mater: It is the innermost layer of the meninges which is directly adherent to the surface of the brain. The pia mater is a thin and highly vascularized membrane that follows the contours of the brain. As it is highly vascularized it provides essential nutrients to the brain.

Meninges form a protective barrier around the brain and play a crucial role in regulating the flow and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. Damage to the meninges cause cell death in the underlying brain regions which can cause meningitis and hematoma.

Also Read: Protection of the Central Nervous System 

Meninges are the protective membranes surrounding and enclosing the brain and spinal cord. There are three layers of meninges: the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater. The main difference between brain and spinal cord meninges lies in the characteristic features of the dura mater. The brain’s dura mater has two layers: the periosteal and the meningeal layer. The spinal cord’s dura mater only has one layer, the meningeal layer. Brain and spinal cord meninges protect and support the central nervous system by containing cerebrospinal fluid and shielding against infections and injuries.