Lecture 07: Spinal Cord, Brainstem, Cortex Control of Motor Function

Question 1

Anterior motor neurons:

Answer 1

1. Alpha motor neurons give rise to A alpha (Aα) fibers

Question 2

Interneurons:

Answer 2

1. 30x as numerous as anterior motor neurons
2. Small and highly excitable
3. Capable of spontaneous activity
4. Responsible for most of spinal cord integrative function

Question 3

Renshaw cells:

Answer 3

Receive collateral branches from alpha motor neurons Inhibitory cells

Transmit inhibitory signals to surrounding motor neurons:

Question 4

Renshaw cells result in:

Answer 4

LATERAL inhibition