Motoneuron

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Motoneuron

Motoneuron (pronounced: mo-to-neu-ron), also known as motor neuron, is a type of neuron that is responsible for conveying impulses from the central nervous system to the effector (muscles or glands) that results in movement or action.

Etymology

The term "motoneuron" is derived from the Latin word "movere" which means "to move" and the Greek word "neuron" which means "nerve".

Function

Motoneurons are the final pathway for the execution of movement. They receive input from the brain and spinal cord and transmit these signals to the muscles, causing them to contract and produce movement. There are two types of motoneurons: upper motoneuron and lower motoneuron. Upper motoneurons originate in the brain and send their axons down to the spinal cord. Lower motoneurons originate in the spinal cord and send their axons out to the muscles.

Related Terms

  • Neuron: A specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses; a nerve cell.
  • Central nervous system: The complex of nerve tissues that controls the activities of the body. In vertebrates, it comprises the brain and spinal cord.
  • Effector: An organ or cell that acts in response to a stimulus.
  • Upper motoneuron: Neurons in the brain that control the lower motoneurons in the spinal cord.
  • Lower motoneuron: Neurons in the spinal cord that directly innervate muscles and cause them to contract.

See Also

External links

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