Pyramidal tracts
Pyramidal tracts
Pyramidal tracts (pronunciation: /pɪˈræmɪdəl træks/) are a group of neurons that originate in the cerebral cortex and project to the spinal cord. They are a part of the motor system that is responsible for voluntary movement.
Etymology
The term "pyramidal tracts" is derived from their pyramid-like shape in the medulla oblongata, where they are visible on the ventral surface. The word "pyramidal" comes from the Greek word "pyramis" meaning a pyramid, and "tract" is derived from the Latin word "tractus" which means a drawing out or a stretching.
Function
The pyramidal tracts are responsible for the voluntary control of the muscles of the body and face. They are divided into two main groups: the corticospinal tract and the corticobulbar tract. The corticospinal tract controls movements of the body, while the corticobulbar tract controls movements of the face.
Related Terms
- Corticospinal tract: A part of the pyramidal tracts that controls movements of the body.
- Corticobulbar tract: A part of the pyramidal tracts that controls movements of the face.
- Motor system: The part of the central nervous system that is involved in movement.
- Neuron: A nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system.
- Cerebral cortex: The outer layer of the cerebrum in the brain, where the pyramidal tracts originate.
- Spinal cord: The part of the central nervous system that the pyramidal tracts project to.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pyramidal tracts
- Wikipedia's article - Pyramidal tracts
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