Spinal Cord

Front

What is the central canal?

Back

The central canal is a small, fluid-filled channel located in the center of the spinal cord, which contains cerebrospinal fluid.

Front

What is the posterior median sulcus?

Back

The posterior median sulcus is a groove that runs along the back (dorsal side) of the spinal cord, separating the two halves of the posterior columns.

Front

What are the posterior (dorsal) horns?

Back

The posterior (dorsal) horns are regions of gray matter in the spinal cord that contain sensory neurons and are involved in processing sensory information.

Front

What is the ventral column?

Back

The ventral column is a region of white matter in the spinal cord that contains motor pathways, transmitting signals from the brain to the body.

Front

What is the function of the pia mater?

Back

The pia mater is the delicate innermost layer of the meninges that closely adheres to the surface of the spinal cord and brain, providing protection and nourishment.

Front

What is the dura mater?

Back

The dura mater is the tough outermost layer of the meninges that surrounds and protects the spinal cord and brain.

Front

What is the subarachnoid space?

Back

The subarachnoid space is the area between the arachnoid mater and pia mater that contains cerebrospinal fluid, which cushions the spinal cord.

Front

What are the lateral horns?

Back

The lateral horns are regions of gray matter found in the spinal cord, primarily in the thoracic and upper lumbar regions, containing autonomic motor neurons.

Front

What is the role of the ventral roots?

Back

The ventral roots are bundles of motor neuron axons that carry signals from the spinal cord to the muscles, facilitating movement.

Front

What is the anterior median fissure?

Back

The anterior median fissure is a deep groove that runs along the front (ventral side) of the spinal cord, separating the two halves.