MOTOR NEURON Meaning and
Definition
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A motor neuron is a specialized type of nerve cell that plays a crucial role in the transmission of nerve signals from the brain and spinal cord to muscles and other effectors, allowing for voluntary and involuntary movement. It is a fundamental component of the motor pathway, coordinating and controlling muscle contraction and movement throughout the body.
Motor neurons are characterized by their unique structural and functional features. They possess a cell body, dendrites, and a long, cable-like extension known as an axon. The cell body contains the nucleus and organelles necessary for cellular functioning, while the dendrites receive incoming signals from other neurons. The axon acts as a conduit for transmitting electrical impulses, known as action potentials, over long distances to reach their target muscles or organs.
There are two main types of motor neurons: upper motor neurons and lower motor neurons. Upper motor neurons are located within the brain, particularly in the primary motor cortex, and transmit signals to the lower motor neurons. Lower motor neurons are found in the spinal cord and cranial nerves, and directly innervate muscles or glands. Damage to motor neurons can result in various motor disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and paralysis.
Overall, motor neurons are critical components of the nervous system, responsible for relaying signals between the brain and muscles, enabling coordinated and purposeful movement in humans and other organisms.
Common Misspellings for MOTOR NEURON
- notor neuron
- kotor neuron
- jotor neuron
- mitor neuron
- mktor neuron
- mltor neuron
- mptor neuron
- m0tor neuron
- m9tor neuron
- moror neuron
- mofor neuron
- mogor neuron
- moyor neuron
- mo6or neuron
- mo5or neuron
- motir neuron
- motkr neuron
- motlr neuron
- motpr neuron
Etymology of MOTOR NEURON
The word "motor neuron" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.
The term "motor" comes from the Latin word "motor" which means "mover" or "one who moves". It is derived from the Latin verb "movere" which means "to move". In the context of neurons, "motor" relates to their function of initiating and controlling movements.
The term "neuron" comes from the Greek word "neuron" which means "sinew" or "nerve". It is derived from the Greek word "neur" which means "tendon" or "string". This reflects the extended, thread-like structure of neurons within the nervous system.
When combined, "motor neuron" refers to a specific type of neuron responsible for transmitting electrical impulses from the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to the muscles or glands, thus allowing for voluntary or involuntary movements.
Similar spelling words for MOTOR NEURON
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