Spinal Cord

A long, cylindrical bundle of nerves that extends from the brainstem down the back, serving as the main pathway for communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

Key Functions:

• Transmits sensory information from the body to the brain.
• Transmits motor commands from the brain to muscles.
• Mediates reflexes independently of the brain.
• Contains neural circuits for rhythmic movements like walking.

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Brain (connects to)
• Nerves (spinal nerves branch off)
• Skeletal Muscle (controls)
• Dermatomes (sensory innervation patterns)
• Vertebral Column (enclosed within)