Rubrospinal tract

Rubrospinal tract is a part of the central nervous system that plays a significant role in motor control. It is one of the major descending pathways for the transmission of impulses from the brain to the spinal cord.

Etymology

The term "rubrospinal" is derived from the Latin words "ruber" meaning red and "spinalis" meaning of the spine. This is due to the origin of the tract in the red nucleus of the midbrain.

Anatomy

The rubrospinal tract originates in the red nucleus of the midbrain. It crosses to the opposite side of the brain in the ventral tegmental decussation and descends in the lateral funiculus of the spinal cord. It terminates in the lateral part of the anterior horn and intermediate zone of the spinal cord.

Function

The rubrospinal tract is involved in the control of movement. It facilitates flexor muscles and inhibits extensor muscles. It is particularly important for the control of precise, voluntary movements.

Clinical significance

Damage to the rubrospinal tract can result in a variety of motor deficits. These can include weakness, loss of fine motor control, and increased muscle tone. In addition, damage to this tract can result in Babinski sign, a pathological reflex indicative of upper motor neuron disease.

See also

• Motor system
• Upper motor neuron
• Red nucleus

References

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  Spinal cord tracts - English