Neural pathway

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Neural pathway refers to the connection formed by axons that project from neurons to make synapses onto neurons in another location, to enable a signal to be sent from one region of the nervous system to another. Neural pathways serve to connect relatively distant areas of the brain or nervous system, compared to the local communication of neurons within a specific area.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Neurons are interconnected by pathways in the nervous system to form complex functional systems. Pathways are connected to one another, forming a complex network of communication known as the neural network. The neural pathways serve as the route for signals to be transmitted throughout the body, enabling the coordination of physical actions and mental processes.

Types of Neural Pathways[edit | edit source]

There are three types of neural pathways:

  1. Sensory Pathways - These pathways conduct sensory information from the peripheral nervous system to the brain.
  2. Motor Pathways - These pathways conduct motor commands from the brain to the muscles of the body.
  3. Interneurons - These pathways conduct signals between neurons within specific regions of the central nervous system.

Function[edit | edit source]

Neural pathways enable the transmission of signals from one part of the nervous system to another, facilitating communication between different regions of the brain, as well as between the brain and the rest of the body. They play a crucial role in the coordination of various physical actions and mental processes.

Disorders[edit | edit source]

Disorders of the neural pathways can lead to a variety of neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and multiple sclerosis. These disorders can disrupt the normal functioning of the neural pathways, leading to symptoms such as movement difficulties, memory loss, and cognitive impairment.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for disorders of the neural pathways typically involves managing the symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. This can include medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Neural pathway Resources
Wikipedia
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD