MAUTHNER NEURON Meaning and
Definition
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A Mauthner neuron is a specialized type of large, identifiable, and highly active neuron found in the central nervous system of certain aquatic vertebrates, most notably fish. It is named after its discoverer, Ludwig Mauthner, a German neuroanatomist. The Mauthner neuron is primarily found in the hindbrain of these animals, specifically in a structure known as the rhombomere 4, which is responsible for controlling locomotion and escape responses.
The Mauthner neuron is renowned for its role in initiating rapid escape responses. It is the largest neuron in these animals and its axon extends throughout the entire length of the spinal cord, making it one of the longest axons found in any vertebrate. This elongated structure enables the Mauthner neuron to transmit signals rapidly, ensuring quick reaction times during predator evasion.
When a potential threat is detected, such as a sudden noise or the presence of a predator, the Mauthner neuron rapidly triggers a series of coordinated contractions in the muscles on both sides of the body, propelling the animal away from danger. This escape response is crucial for the survival of these aquatic species.
Due to its distinctive characteristics and crucial role in escape responses, the Mauthner neuron has been extensively studied by neuroscientists, providing important insights into the principles of neural circuitry and the mechanisms underlying rapid behavioral reactions in vertebrates.
Common Misspellings for MAUTHNER NEURON
- nauthner neuron
- kauthner neuron
- jauthner neuron
- mzuthner neuron
- msuthner neuron
- mwuthner neuron
- mquthner neuron
- maythner neuron
- mahthner neuron
- majthner neuron
- maithner neuron
- ma8thner neuron
- ma7thner neuron
- maurhner neuron
- maufhner neuron
- maughner neuron
- mauyhner neuron
- mau6hner neuron
- mau5hner neuron
- mautgner neuron
Etymology of MAUTHNER NEURON
The term "Mauthner neuron" is derived from the name of its discoverer, Ludwig Mauthner, an Austrian anatomist and neurologist. Ludwig Mauthner first described these specialized giant neurons in the brainstem of fishes in 1859. These neurons are particularly known for their unique shape and their role in escape responses.
