Motor neuron

/mˈəʊtə njˈuːɹɒn/

/mˈoʊɾɚ nˈʊɹɹɑːn/

[noun]

Motor neuron

[NOUN]

a nerve cell that transmits signals from the central nervous system to the muscles, enabling voluntary movements

synonyms : efferent neuron

motoneuron

motor nerve fiber

What is a "motor neuron"?

A motor neuron is a specialized type of nerve cell that plays a crucial role in the functioning of the nervous system. Found in both the brain and spinal cord, motor neurons are responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the muscles throughout the body. These neurons have a distinct structure, with a cell body, dendrites that receive signals from other neurons, and an axon that carries the signals to the target muscle. Motor neurons are essential for coordinating and controlling voluntary movements, allowing us to perform complex actions such as walking, grasping objects, and speaking. Their function is vital for maintaining muscle tone, balance, and overall body movement.

Examples

1. First, your brain sends a signal to motor neurons inside your arm.

2. It's a motor neuron.

3. The second set of interactions are motor neurons that have been produced by exposure to small molecules over a 7-day period.

4. It has a spectrum with motor neuron disease.