Neural Pathways and Sensory Processing

These flashcards cover key concepts related to neural pathways, sensory processing, and the structure and function of nerves.

What is the function of the Dorsal Cerebellar Pathway?

It conveys information from the spinal cord to the cerebellum regarding body position.

How does the Signal Transmission process start?

A stimulus occurs, such as poking a finger, creating graded potentials at the tactile disc.

What is decussation in the context of neural pathways?

The crossing of a nerve pathway from one side of the central nervous system to the other.

Where is the somatosensory cortex located?

The somatosensory cortex is posterior to the central sulcus.

What type of sensory information does the Medial Lemniscal Pathway transmit?

It transmits fine touch, vibration, and proprioception information.

What are nociceptors?

Nociceptors are sensory receptors that detect painful stimuli.

What happens when a painful stimulus is detected?

A strong graded potential is generated, and the signal crosses over at the spinal cord.

What is the role of the Direct Pyramidal Pathways?

They initiate voluntary movements by carrying motor commands directly from the brain.

What structure surrounds each fascicle in a nerve?

The perineurium surrounds each fascicle.

What does the term 'mixed nerves' refer to?

Nerves that contain both sensory and motor fibers.

What is the homunculus?

A representation of the human body in the brain indicating the amount of somatosensory or motor cortex devoted to each body part.