Descending

Descending is a term used in anatomy to describe the direction or path of certain structures or processes in the body. It is often used in the context of the digestive system, particularly in reference to the descending colon, but can also refer to other structures such as the descending aorta or the descending tracts of the nervous system.

Anatomy

In anatomy, the term "descending" is used to describe the direction or path of certain structures or processes in the body. This is often in relation to the vertical axis of the body, with "descending" indicating a direction that is moving downwards or towards the lower part of the body.

Descending Colon

The descending colon is the part of the large intestine that moves down the left side of the abdominal cavity, from the splenic flexure to the sigmoid colon. It is responsible for storing the remains of digested food that will be emptied into the rectum.

Descending Aorta

The descending aorta is the largest artery in the body and is a major conduit of blood from the heart to the rest of the body. It descends from the aortic arch and travels down the back of the chest and abdomen.

Descending Tracts

The descending tracts of the nervous system are pathways by which motor signals are sent from the brain to lower motor neurons. These tracts descend down the spinal cord and are responsible for voluntary movement of muscles.

See Also

• Ascending
• Transverse
• Anatomy
• Digestive system
• Nervous system

References

Descending Resources
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