Lower Motor Neurons
Lower motor neurons (LMNs) are motor neurons with a motor function that are either found in the brainstem’s cranial nerve nuclei and the anterior nerve roots (cranial nerve lower motor neurons) or in the anterior grey column. Spinal lower motor neurons, which innervate skeletal muscle fibers and serve as a conduit between upper motor neurons and muscles, are essential for many voluntary actions. Lower motor neurons of the cranial nerve also help with vocalization, chewing, and some voluntary movements of the tongue, face, and eyes. Atrophy of the muscles and flaccid paralysis can result from damage to the lower motor neurons.
Structure and Function of the Lower Motor Neurons
The axon of the Lower Motor Neurons ARE shorter and runs from the spinal cord or brainstem to the muscles they govern. They are in charge of activating muscles and creating movement. Lower Motor Neurons are responsible for controlling voluntary movement and maintaining muscle tone. They receive information from several sources, including the primary motor cortex, basal ganglia, and cerebellum, which modify LMN activity to create smooth and synchronized motions.
Significance OF Lower Motor Neurons
This sort of neuron can be found close to muscles. Multiple motor diseases, including muscular weakening, atrophy, and paralysis, can be brought on by Lower Motor Neurons injury or malfunction. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and polio are common diseases that impact Lower Motor Neurons. Under these circumstances, the LMNs may be harmed, resulting in a loss of muscular control and strength.
Difference Upper and Lower Motor Neurons
The spinal cord’s sensory and motor pathways support the transmission of sensory and motor impulses, respectively. Motor routes take impulses from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles of the effector, whereas sensory pathways take impulses from the sense receptors to the brain and spinal cord. The two fundamental sets of neurons found in the somatic motor pathways are upper and lower motor neurons. Let’s examine the different distinctions between upper and lower neurons in this post.