Spinal chord
Spinal Cord
The Spinal Cord (pronunciation: /ˈspaɪnəl kɔːrd/) is a long, thin, tubular structure made up of nervous tissue, which extends from the medulla oblongata in the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. It encloses the central canal of the spinal cord that contains cerebrospinal fluid.
Etymology
The term "Spinal Cord" is derived from the Latin spina, meaning "thorn", and cord, meaning "string". This is in reference to the cord-like structure that runs along the spine.
Function
The spinal cord functions primarily in the transmission of nerve signals from the motor cortex to the body, and from the afferent fibers of the sensory neurons to the sensory cortex. It is also a center for coordinating many reflexes.
Anatomy
The spinal cord is protected by three layers of tissue, called meninges, that surround the canal. The dura mater is the outermost layer, and it forms a tough protective coating. Between the dura mater and the surrounding bone of the vertebrae is a space called the epidural space. The epidural space is filled with adipose tissue, and it contains a network of blood vessels.
Related Terms
- Vertebral column: Also known as the spine, it is a column usually consisting of 24 articulating vertebrae, and 9 fused vertebrae in the sacrum and the coccyx.
- Nervous system: The complex, highly specialized network of nerve cells and fibers that transmit nerve impulses between parts of the body.
- Neuron: A specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses; a nerve cell.
- Reflex: An action that is performed as a response to a stimulus and without conscious thought.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Spinal chord
- Wikipedia's article - Spinal chord
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