Group C nerve fiber

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Group C nerve fiber

File:Group C nerve fiber.jpg
A diagram showing the structure of a Group C nerve fiber.

The Group C nerve fiber is a type of nerve fiber that is unmyelinated and has a small diameter, which results in a slow conduction velocity. These fibers are part of the peripheral nervous system and are primarily responsible for transmitting signals related to pain, temperature, and autonomic functions.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Group C nerve fibers are unmyelinated, meaning they lack a myelin sheath. This lack of myelination contributes to their slow conduction velocity, which ranges from 0.5 to 2.0 meters per second. The diameter of these fibers is typically less than 2 micrometers.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of Group C nerve fibers is to transmit signals related to pain and temperature. They are also involved in the transmission of signals related to autonomic functions. These fibers carry both nociceptive (painful) and thermoceptive (temperature) stimuli to the central nervous system.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Due to their role in pain transmission, Group C nerve fibers are a target for pain management therapies. Drugs that block the transmission of signals along these fibers can provide relief from chronic pain conditions. Additionally, conditions that damage these fibers, such as neuropathy, can result in abnormal pain sensations or loss of pain sensation.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD