WHITE MATTER Meaning and
Definition
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White matter is a term used in neuroscience and anatomy to describe a part of the central nervous system (CNS) that consists primarily of nerve fibers or axons. It is sourced from myelinated axons that connect various parts of the brain together, as well as transmit electrical impulses between different regions of the CNS. These axons are encased in a fatty substance called myelin, which gives the white matter its characteristic color.
White matter can be found in the brain and spinal cord, and its function is to facilitate communication between different areas of grey matter, which contains the neuron cell bodies. The myelinated axons act as conduits, enabling the transmission of signals from one part of the brain or spinal cord to another rapidly and efficiently.
In the brain, white matter is distributed beneath the cerebral cortex (the outer layer of the brain) and also forms the core of structures called subcortical nuclei. Its importance lies in providing pathways for neural communication, allowing different regions of the brain to work in synchrony and coordinate various functions such as movement, sensory perception, and cognition.
Alterations in white matter structure and integrity have been associated with various neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. Furthermore, white matter abnormalities have been implicated in psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and depression.
Understanding the organization and function of white matter is crucial for unraveling the complexities of the human brain and how it processes information and coordinates bodily functions.
Common Misspellings for WHITE MATTER
- qhite matter
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Etymology of WHITE MATTER
The word "white matter" comes from the combination of two terms: "white" and "matter".
The term "white" refers to the color of this particular type of neural tissue when it is viewed under a microscope. It appears white due to the high concentration of myelin, a fatty substance that surrounds and insulates the nerve fibers.
The term "matter" in this context refers to the focus on neurological tissue, which makes up the central nervous system and plays a vital role in transmitting signals between different parts of the brain and spinal cord.
Therefore, the etymology of "white matter" is directly related to the color and composition of the neural tissue it describes.
Similar spelling words for WHITE MATTER
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