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A mysterious journey through the brainstem: How does the corticospinal tract control your every movement?
In our daily lives, there is a complex neuroscience process behind every action. The corticospinal tract and cortico-brainstem tract are the main neural pathways for body movement control. These nerve fibers originate from the cerebral cortex and eventually reach the spinal cord and brainstem, coordinating the body's movement responses.
These nerve fibers are involved in the control of various fine movements and facial expressions, from nose picking to smiling, everything is mixed with their shadow.
Structural analysis
The corticospinal tract is typically an extension of upper motor neurons that originate in the cerebral cortex and then terminate in the spinal cord (corticospinal tract) or brainstem (cortico-brainstem tract). This group of nerve conduction pathways is not only responsible for issuing movement instructions, but also communicates with other neurons during the neurotransmission process. This process reveals the vast structure of a neural network.
In the corticospinal tract, the vast majority of nerve fibers cross in the medulla oblongata, which explains why one side of the brain can control muscles on the opposite side of the body.
Importance of the corticospinal tract
The operation of the corticospinal tract is not only to control movement, but also involves the participation of higher-order neurological functions. After passing through the medulla oblongata, the nerve fibers in these pathways divide into lateral and anterior corticospinal tracts. According to statistics, about 80% of the fibers cross to form the lateral corticospinal tract, while the other 10% go to the anterior corticospinal tract.
Functions and functions
The nerves in the corticospinal tract are not only responsible for body movement, but are also directly related to facial and head movements. Cortical brainstem tracts play a key role in controlling head muscle movements, including swallowing, speech, and facial expressions.
The operation of the corticospinal tract is increasingly important because it is involved in the most basic movements and social behaviors in our daily lives.
Clinical significance
Upper motor neuron symptoms may occur when nerve fibers in the corticospinal tract are damaged. Conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy and spinal cord injury may cause stiffness, hyperreflexia and loss of fine movements.
Once the cortical brainstem tracts are damaged, it will cause difficulty in facial movement, especially affecting the muscles.
Traces in culture
The corticospinal tract is also mentioned in popular culture. For example, in "National Bulb's European Vacation," an amusing plot revolves around a misunderstanding of the corticospinal tract that leads to a hilarious competition. This led to the realization that biology and neuroscience can spark interest even in entertainment.
Conclusion
The function of the corticospinal tract is not limited to pure motor control, it also involves all aspects of our existence, weaving a complex neural network. Such a journey reveals the mysteries of the human body, and also triggers thinking: Is there much cooperation and command of nerves behind every action you take today?
