The lateral corticospinal tract controls the movement of distal muscles, while the ventral corticospinal tract controls the movement of proximal muscles. Additionally, fibers in the lateral corticospinal tract cross to the opposite side of the body at the pyramidal decussation, while fibers in the ventral corticospinal tract only cross over when they reach the level of the spinal cord where they will synapse on a lower motor neuron.

Study Notes

Corticospinal Tract Function

The corticospinal tract is a pathway that carries motor signals from the brain to the spinal cord, transmitting voluntary motor signals to control muscle movements.

Upper Motor Neurons

Upper motor neurons are neurons that originate in the cerebral cortex and transmit signals to lower motor neurons in the spinal cord, which then transmit signals to muscles and glands.

Lateral and Ventral Corticospinal Tracts

The lateral corticospinal tract is a pathway that crosses over to the opposite side of the spinal cord, controlling muscles on the opposite side of the body.
The ventral corticospinal tract is a pathway that does not cross over, controlling muscles on the same side of the body.
The lateral tract is larger and more important for voluntary motor control, while the ventral tract is smaller and has a more limited role in motor control.

Test your knowledge of the Corticospinal Tract, the essential pathway that carries movement-related information from the motor cortex to the spinal cord. This quiz will cover the key concepts, structures, and functions of upper motor neurons, their path through the brainstem, and their role in controlling movement. Sharpen your understanding of this crucial neurological system and its implications for motor functioning.