Sensorimotor System Concepts

Professor Dave explains the sensorimotor system, detailing how the brain sends signals to the body for motor output. The system is hierarchically organized and functionally segregated, with information flowing from the association cortex to the primary motor cortex. The cerebellum and basal ganglia play roles in motor learning and movement facilitation. Descending motor pathways are outlined, and the muscle-spindle feedback circuit is discussed, explaining reflexes like the stretch and withdrawal reflexes.

What is the primary function of the sensorimotor system?

• To send signals from the brain to the body

• To control the digestive system

• To regulate emotions

• To process sensory information

Which area of the brain receives information from the visual, auditory, and somatosensory systems?

• Primary motor cortex

• Cerebellum

• Posterior parietal association cortex

• Basal ganglia

What is the role of the secondary motor cortex?

• To initiate reflex actions

• To control involuntary muscles

• To program patterned movements

• To process sensory feedback

Which part of the brain is responsible for the majority of sensorimotor signals leaving the brain?

• Cerebellum

• Secondary motor cortex

• Primary motor cortex

• Basal ganglia

What is the function of the cerebellum in the sensorimotor system?

• To control heart rate

• To play a role in motor learning

• To facilitate unwanted movements

• To process visual information

Which structure is involved in facilitating wanted movements and inhibiting unwanted ones?

• Cerebellum

• Basal ganglia

• Primary motor cortex

• Posterior parietal cortex

What is the primary role of the dorsolateral corticospinal tract?

• To regulate hormone release

• To control voluntary muscle movements

• To process auditory signals

• To manage emotional responses

What do Golgi tendon organs respond to?

• Changes in temperature

• Changes in muscle length

• Changes in muscle tension

• Changes in blood pressure

What is the stretch reflex primarily responsible for?

• Maintaining balance

• Protecting the body from harm

• Regulating heart rate

• Extending the leg when the knee is tapped

What is reciprocal innervation?

• The process of muscle contraction

• The pathway of sensory signals to the brain

• The feedback loop between muscles and the brain

• The simultaneous excitation and inhibition of different neurons