Upper motor neuron

Definition

Upper motor neurons are nerve cells in the central nervous system that initiate and regulate voluntary movements by transmitting signals from the brain to lower motor neurons, which then directly innervate muscles. They play a crucial role in the planning, initiation, and modulation of motor movements.

Related terms

Lower Motor Neuron: Nerve cells that directly innervate skeletal muscles, enabling movement and reflex activities.

Central Nervous System (CNS): The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing and sending out neural signals.

Motor Cortex:

A region of the cerebral cortex involved in planning, controlling, and executing voluntary movements