Spinotectal tract

Spinotectal tract is a part of the central nervous system that transmits information from the spinal cord to the tectum of the midbrain. It is involved in the reflexive movement of the eyes and head towards a stimulus.

Etymology

The term "spinotectal" is derived from "spino-", a prefix referring to the spinal cord, and "-tectal", a suffix referring to the tectum. The term thus refers to the pathway that connects these two structures.

Structure

The spinotectal tract originates in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, specifically in the marginal nucleus. From there, it ascends through the spinal cord and enters the brainstem at the level of the medulla oblongata. It then continues to ascend through the pons and midbrain to reach the tectum.

Function

The primary function of the spinotectal tract is to mediate reflexive movements of the eyes and head towards a stimulus. This is achieved by transmitting information about the location of the stimulus from the spinal cord to the tectum. The tectum then sends signals to the cranial nerves that control the movements of the eyes and head.

Clinical significance

Damage to the spinotectal tract can result in a loss of these reflexive movements. This can occur as a result of various conditions, including spinal cord injury, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases.

See also

• Spinothalamic tract
• Tectospinal tract

References

Spinotectal tract Resources
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