Dictionary of Biological Psychology
A body of nerves extending from the ventral portion of the SPINAL CORD. These roots arise bilaterally, at each segment of the spinal cord, from the ventrolateral surface of the cord. They are composed of the axons of MOTOR NEURONS whose cell bodies form nuclei within the ventral horns of the spinal cord.
These motor neurons innervate skeletal musculature. In the thoracic and upper lumbar region of the spinal cord, ventral roots also contain processes from sympathetic preganglionic neurons. These synapse within ganglia of the SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM. In the sacral region, ventral roots carry fibres of PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM neurons which innervate the bladder, parts of the colon and rectum, and the sexual organs.
See also: dorsal root
FIONA M.INGLIS
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