White matter

What is "white matter"?

White matter refers to the tissue in the central nervous system that consists primarily of myelinated nerve fibers. It forms the inner layer of the cerebral cortex and comprises bundles of axons that connect different regions of the brain and spinal cord. White matter facilitates communication between different brain regions and enables the transmission of electrical signals across long distances. It plays a vital role in coordinating complex processes such as motor control, sensory perception, and cognitive functions. The name "white matter" stems from its appearance, which is lighter in color compared to the grey matter due to the presence of myelin sheaths that surround the axons.