Pia mater
Pia Mater
Pia mater (pronounced: pee-uh may-ter) is one of the three meninges that protect the brain and spinal cord. The term originates from Latin, where "pia" means "pious" and "mater" means "mother", thus it can be translated as "tender mother".
Etymology
The term "pia mater" comes from Medieval Latin, where "pia" means "pious" and "mater" means "mother". The name was given due to the membrane's gentle and protective nature towards the brain and spinal cord, similar to a mother's care for her child.
Function
The pia mater is the innermost layer of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It is a thin and delicate membrane that closely follows the contours of the brain and spinal cord, entering into every fold and crevice. It helps to protect these structures and contains blood vessels that supply nutrients to the nervous tissue.
Related Terms
- Meninges: The three membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, consisting of the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.
- Dura Mater: The outermost layer of the meninges, which is tough and durable.
- Arachnoid Mater: The middle layer of the meninges, which is web-like and filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
- Cerebrospinal Fluid: The fluid that circulates within the spaces of the meninges, providing a cushion for the brain and spinal cord.
- Spinal Cord: The bundle of nerve fibers that runs down the center of the spine, transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
- Brain: The organ of the body which is the center of the nervous system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pia mater
- Wikipedia's article - Pia mater
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