Monosynaptic reflex

Monosynaptic reflex (pronunciation: mono-syn-aptic re-flex) is a type of reflex that involves a single synapse between the afferent neuron and efferent neuron. This reflex is the simplest form of reflex and is often used as a model system for studying neural circuits and neurophysiology.

Etymology

The term "monosynaptic reflex" is derived from the Greek words "mono" meaning "one", "syn" meaning "together", and "aptic" meaning "touch". This refers to the single synapse involved in this type of reflex.

Definition

A monosynaptic reflex is a reflex pathway in which the sensory neuron synapses directly onto the motor neuron in the spinal cord. This is in contrast to polysynaptic reflexes, where one or more interneurons are part of the pathway. The most well-known example of a monosynaptic reflex is the patellar reflex or knee-jerk reflex.

Related Terms

Reflex: An involuntary and nearly instantaneous movement in response to a stimulus.
Synapse: The junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter.
Afferent neuron: A neuron that carries sensory information from the periphery to the central nervous system.
Efferent neuron: A neuron that carries motor commands from the central nervous system to the muscles.
Neural circuits: A functional entity of interconnected neurons that is able to regulate its own activity using a feedback loop.
Neurophysiology: The study of the functioning of the nervous system.
Polysynaptic reflex: A reflex that involves the participation of one or more interneurons in the reflex pathway.
Patellar reflex: A reflex action in which the leg extends in response to the patellar tendon being struck.