Question

How many neurons are required for the lateral corticospinal tract pathway (voluntary muscle movement)?

1) One
2) Two (UMN LMN)
3) Three
4) Four

Answer 1

The pathway responsible for voluntary muscle movement, known as the lateral corticospinal tract, involves two neurons: the upper motor neuron and the lower motor neuron.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lateral corticospinal tract pathway, which is essential for voluntary muscle movement, is facilitated through two neurons — the upper motor neuron (UMN) and the lower motor neuron (LMN). These neurons work together to control the contraction of skeletal muscles. Neuron A, or the UMN, has its cell body in the primary motor cortex and sends signals down the spine where it crosses over to the opposite side and eventually synapses on Neuron B, the LMN, in the ventral horn of the spinal cord. Neuron B then sends the signal to a muscle cell which results in muscle contraction.