Ciliospinal center
Ciliospinal Center
The Ciliospinal Center (pronunciation: /ˈsɪli.oʊˌspaɪnəl ˈsɛntər/) is a region of the spinal cord that controls the dilation and constriction of the pupil in response to certain stimuli.
Etymology
The term "Ciliospinal" is derived from the Latin words 'cilia' meaning 'eyelash' and 'spinalis' meaning 'spinal'. This term was first used in the late 19th century to describe the center in the spinal cord that controls the pupil reflex.
Function
The Ciliospinal Center is located in the intermediolateral cell column of the spinal cord, between the C8 and T2 segments. It is responsible for the sympathetic nervous system's control of the pupil's dilation and constriction. This is achieved through the release of norepinephrine, which acts on the iris dilator muscle to cause pupil dilation.
Related Terms
- Pupil: The adjustable opening in the center of the eye that allows light to strike the retina.
- Sympathetic nervous system: Part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for action.
- Norepinephrine: A hormone that is released by the sympathetic nervous system in response to stress.
- Iris dilator muscle: A muscle of the eye, running radially in the iris and therefore fit to pull the pupil open.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ciliospinal center
- Wikipedia's article - Ciliospinal center
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