Gray substance

Gray Commissure is a narrow region of grey matter that connects the two hemispheres of the spinal cord. It is a critical part of the central nervous system (CNS) and plays a significant role in transmitting nerve impulses between the two sides of the spinal cord.

Anatomy

The gray commissure surrounds the central canal of the spinal cord, which is responsible for the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. It is composed of unmyelinated neurons, which gives it its characteristic gray color. The gray commissure, along with the rest of the gray matter in the spinal cord, is organized into a butterfly or "H" shape when viewed in cross-section.

Function

The primary function of the gray commissure is to allow for communication between the two halves of the spinal cord. This communication is essential for the coordination of both sides of the body. The gray commissure also plays a role in the transmission of pain and temperature sensations from one side of the body to the other.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the gray commissure can result in a variety of neurological disorders. For example, syringomyelia, a condition characterized by the formation of a fluid-filled cyst in the spinal cord, often affects the gray commissure. This can lead to pain, weakness, and stiffness in the back, shoulders, arms, or legs.

See Also

• Central nervous system
• Spinal cord
• Grey matter
• Neuron