Descending Pathways

Question 1

lateral vestibulospinal tract

Answer 1

function: ipsilateral posture (legs)
POO: lateral vestibular (Deiter's) nucleus (upper medulla)
1st synapse: VHLSSC
decussates: no
final destination: muscles of legs

Question 2

medial vestibulospinal tract (MLF)

Answer 2

function: axial muscles
POO: medial vestibular nucleus (upper medulla)
1st synapse: VHTSC
decussates: no, b/l
final destination: axial muscles

Question 3

tectospinal tract

Answer 3

function: neck movement reflex
POO: superior colliculus (midbrain)
1st synapse: VHCSC
decussates: midbrain
final destination: muscles of neck and head

Question 4

reticulospinal tract

Answer 4

function: dynamic state change global muscle response
POO: pontine or medullary reticular formation
1st synapse: VHSC
decussates: medullary only (b/l)
final destination: skeletal muscle

Question 5

rubrospinal tract

Answer 5

function: thumbs?
POO: red nucleus (midbrain)
1st synapse: VHCSC
decussates: midbrain
final destination: muscle

Question 6

lateral corticospinal tract

Answer 6

function: voluntary limbs motor
POO: primary MC
1st synapse: VHSC
decussates: pyramidal decussation
final destination: limbs

Question 7

anterior corticospinal tract

Answer 7

function: voluntary trunk
POO: primary MC
1st synapse: VHCTSC
decussates: doesn't have to; ant. white commisure
final destination: trunk