Functions of Motor Neuron
Function of the motor neuron includes:
- Motor neuron allow the brain and spinal cord to communicate with muscles, organs, and glands all over the body.
- They play a role in movement, including voluntary and involuntary movements.
- Motor neurons carry the signal response from the central nervous system to the effector organs.
- When stimulated, motor neurons release neurotransmitters that bind to the receptors on muscles to trigger a response, which leads to movement.
- Maintains posture and balance through muscle contractions.
- Regulates muscles for speech and facial expressions.
- Controls precise and coordinated movements.
- Regulates respiratory muscle contractions.
- Coordinates muscles for swallowing and digestion.
Motor Neuron: Diagram, Characteristics and Diseases
Motor neurons are nerve cells that send signals from the brain to the peripheral nervous system to initiate an action. Motor neurons have two main subtypes, upper motor neurons and lower motor neurons. Upper motor neurons originate in the brain and travel downward to connect with the lower motor neurons.
The structure of a motor neuron consists of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. Motor neurons allow us to speak, swallow, move, and breathe. In this article, we will study the motor neuron and understand the structure and function of motor neurons with a well-labeled diagram.
Table of Content
- What are Motor Neurons?
- Diagram of Motor Neuron
- Structure of Motor Neuron
- Characteristics of Motor Neuron
- Functions of Motor Neuron
- Motor Neuron Diseases
- Motor Neurone Disease Causes