Upper motor neuron

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Upper Motor Neuron

The Upper Motor Neuron (pronounced: /ˈʌpər ˈmoʊtər ˈnjuːrɒn/) is a type of motor neuron that originates in the motor region of the cerebral cortex or the brain stem. The cells are called upper motor neurons because they are located in the upper part of the central nervous system (CNS).

Etymology

The term "Upper Motor Neuron" is derived from the Latin words 'superior' meaning 'upper', 'motor' meaning 'mover', and 'neuron' meaning 'nerve'.

Function

Upper motor neurons are responsible for carrying information down to the final common pathway, then directly or indirectly controlling voluntary movements, especially fine movements performed by the hand. They connect the brain to the lower motor neurons, which are located in the spinal cord and cranial nerve nuclei, and from there to the muscles.

Related Terms

  • Motor Neuron: A neuron that conveys impulses from the central nervous system to a muscle, gland, or other effector tissue.
  • Lower Motor Neuron: Neurons whose cell body lies in the spinal cord and whose fiber (axon) leads to a muscle.
  • Cerebral Cortex: The outer layer of the cerebrum, composed of folded gray matter and playing an important role in consciousness.
  • Brain Stem: The part of the brain continuous with the spinal cord and comprising the medulla oblongata, pons, midbrain, and parts of the hypothalamus.

External links

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