Which of the following best describes the function of the anterior horns of the spinal cord?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- The anterior horns of the spinal cord play a crucial role in motor function. Specifically, they contain the cell bodies of somatic motor neurons, which are responsible for transmitting motor commands from the spinal cord to the skeletal muscles.
- This means that these neurons directly control voluntary muscle movements.
To contrast:
- The posterior (dorsal) horns are primarily involved in receiving and processing sensory information from the body before it is transmitted to the brain.
- Interneurons, which participate in reflex arcs, are located throughout the gray matter, including both anterior and posterior horns, but the anterior horn itself is mainly known for housing motor neuron cell bodies, not exclusively interneurons.
- Autonomic fibers generally run through the lateral horn and specific pathways, rather than the anterior horn.
Therefore, the function of the anterior horns is best described as: "Contain motor neuron cell bodies".
This functional organization ensures efficient coordination between the nervous system and muscle activity.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 41st Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 4: Spinal Cord Anatomy and Function
- This means that these neurons directly control voluntary muscle movements.
To contrast:
- The posterior (dorsal) horns are primarily involved in receiving and processing sensory information from the body before it is transmitted to the brain.
- Interneurons, which participate in reflex arcs, are located throughout the gray matter, including both anterior and posterior horns, but the anterior horn itself is mainly known for housing motor neuron cell bodies, not exclusively interneurons.
- Autonomic fibers generally run through the lateral horn and specific pathways, rather than the anterior horn.
Therefore, the function of the anterior horns is best described as: "Contain motor neuron cell bodies".
This functional organization ensures efficient coordination between the nervous system and muscle activity.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 41st Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 4: Spinal Cord Anatomy and Function
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