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Neuromuscular Junction

The synapse where the axon terminal of a motor neuron connects to a muscle cell, facilitating muscle contraction.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter released at the neuromuscular junction that binds to muscle receptors to cause contraction.

Proprioception

The awareness of body position and movement; involves sensors that provide information about muscle and joint positions.

Reflex

An automatic, involuntary response to stimuli, processed by the spinal cord without involving the brain.

Pyramidal System

A pathway involved in the voluntary control of movements, primarily originating from the primary motor cortex.

Extrapyramidal System

A set of neural pathways involved in the regulation of involuntary and automatic control of muscles.

Motor Unit

A single motor neuron and all the muscle fibers it innervates.

Basal Ganglia

A group of nuclei that play a key role in the regulation and fine-tuning of voluntary movements.

Cerebellum

A brain region involved in coordinating voluntary movements and balance; detects errors to ensure smooth execution of movements.

Motor Cortex

The area of the brain responsible for planning, controlling, and executing motor functions, located in the frontal lobe.

Antagonistic Muscles

Muscle pairs that act opposite to each other; for example, biceps and triceps.

Synergist Muscles

Muscles that assist in performing a movement, working together with the prime mover.

Dendrites

Branch-like structures of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Action Potential

An electrical signal that travels down a neuron, triggering neurotransmitter release.

Neuromuscular Junction

The synapse between a motor neuron and the muscle fiber that it controls.

Golgi Tendon Organs

Proprioceptors that sense muscle tension and prevent excessive contraction.

Muscle Spindle

Proprioceptors that detect changes in muscle length and trigger reflexive muscle contraction.

L-DOPA

A medication used to treat Parkinson's disease; a precursor of dopamine that can help increase its levels in the brain.

Huntington's Disease

An inherited neurological disorder that causes uncontrolled movements, emotional problems, and loss of cognitive function.