Climbing fibers
Climbing Fibers
Climbing fibers (/ˈklaɪmɪŋ ˈfaɪbərz/), are a type of neuron that originate in the inferior olivary nucleus in the medulla oblongata of the brain. The term "climbing fiber" is derived from the fiber's distinctive structure, which appears to 'climb' up the dendritic tree of the Purkinje cell.
Etymology
The term "climbing fiber" was first used in the mid-20th century, and is derived from the Latin climare (to climb) and the Greek φυβερ (fiber). This name was chosen due to the unique structure of these fibers, which appear to 'climb' up the dendritic tree of the Purkinje cell.
Function
Climbing fibers have a crucial role in motor coordination. They transmit excitatory input directly to the cerebellar cortex, specifically to the Purkinje cells. Each climbing fiber forms multiple synapses on the proximal dendrites of a single Purkinje cell, providing a powerful excitatory input that can cause the Purkinje cell to fire an action potential.
Related Terms
- Inferior olivary nucleus: The region of the medulla oblongata from which climbing fibers originate.
- Purkinje cell: A type of neuron in the cerebellar cortex that receives input from climbing fibers.
- Cerebellar cortex: The outer layer of the cerebellum, which is involved in motor coordination.
- Neuron: A nerve cell that transmits information through electrical and chemical signals.
- Medulla oblongata: The lower half of the brainstem, containing the inferior olivary nucleus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Climbing fibers
- Wikipedia's article - Climbing fibers
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