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Spinothalamic tract neurons in the substantia gelatinosa
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|December 1, 1978
Summary
The substantia gelatinosa in the spinal cord is not a closed system. Some neurons project to the thalamus, forming part of the spinothalamic tract.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Spinal Cord Anatomy
- Neurobiology
Background:
- The substantia gelatinosa is traditionally viewed as an isolated spinal cord system.
- Neuronal projections were thought to be confined within the substantia gelatinosa itself.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the projection pathways of substantia gelatinosa neurons.
- To determine if substantia gelatinosa neurons project outside this region.
Main Methods:
- Experiments were conducted on monkeys.
- The marker enzyme horseradish peroxidase was injected to trace neuronal connections.
Main Results:
- Evidence shows that some substantia gelatinosa neurons project to the thalamus.
- These projecting neurons are identified as part of the spinothalamic tract.
- Two intrinsic cell types, central cells and limitrophe cells of Cajal, were identified among these projecting neurons.
Conclusions:
- The substantia gelatinosa is not a closed system.
- Certain neurons within the substantia gelatinosa contribute to ascending pain pathways like the spinothalamic tract.
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