Neuroanatomy
Neuroanatomy connects the location of neural structures to their pathways and functions. Begin with the neuron and directional flow of information.
Open interactive lesson & self-check ↗Neuron: directional signal pathway
Original conceptual SVG · scalableTypical multipolar neuron: dendrites receive, soma integrates, axon carries action potentials, terminals communicate at synapses.
Start at a neuron
Dendrites and soma integrate inputs. Action potentials usually arise near the axon initial segment and propagate along the axon toward its terminals.
Trace pathway organization
Ascending pathways transmit sensory information; descending pathways influence movement. Many pathways cross the midline at specific locations.
Review the spinal cord
Gray matter contains cell bodies and local circuits. White matter contains tracts. Dorsal roots carry sensory afferents; ventral roots carry motor efferents.
Reference and next reading
Explore the original curriculum and publisher-hosted resources for full-depth reading; this note is an original schematic introduction, not an exhaustive chapter.