Reticulospinal tract

Definition

The reticulospinal tract is a pathway within the central nervous system that conveys signals from the reticular formation in the brainstem to the spinal cord, primarily influencing voluntary movements and reflex activities. It plays a crucial role in maintaining posture and regulating muscle tone.

Related terms

Reticular Formation: A network of neurons located in the brainstem that regulates wakefulness, sleep-wake cycles, and motor functions.

Motor Neuron:

A type of neuron that directly or indirectly controls muscle contractions and movements.

Spinal Cord:

The cylindrical bundle of nerve fibers and associated tissue that is connected to the brain and lies within the vertebral canal; it transmits neural signals between the brain and the rest of the body