Dorsal root ganglia

Dorsal root ganglia (also known as spinal ganglia) are clusters of nerve cell bodies (neurons) located along the spinal cord. They are a critical part of the peripheral nervous system and play a key role in transmitting sensory information from the peripheral nervous system to the central nervous system.

Structure

Dorsal root ganglia are located on either side of the spinal cord and are connected to it by the dorsal root. Each ganglion contains the cell bodies of sensory neurons. These neurons have long axons that carry signals from sensory receptors in the body to the spinal cord.

Function

The primary function of the dorsal root ganglia is to transmit sensory information from the body to the spinal cord and brain. This includes information about touch, temperature, pain, and body position. The neurons in the dorsal root ganglia are responsible for transmitting these signals.

Clinical significance

Damage or disease affecting the dorsal root ganglia can lead to a variety of neurological disorders. For example, neuropathic pain can result from damage to the neurons in the dorsal root ganglia. In addition, some viruses, such as the herpes simplex virus, can remain dormant in the dorsal root ganglia, leading to recurrent infections.

See also

• Spinal cord
• Peripheral nervous system
• Central nervous system
• Neuron
• Axon
• Neuropathic pain
• Herpes simplex virus

External links

• WikiMD: Dorsal Root Ganglia

Dorsal root ganglia Resources
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