Spinal Segmental Position Relative to the Vertebrae in Korean Water Deer and Siberian Roe Deer

Area of Science:

• Comparative anatomy
• Vertebrate morphology
• Neuroanatomy

Background:

• The relationship between spinal cord and vertebral column length varies significantly across vertebrates.
• Spinal cord anatomy in Korean water deer and Siberian roe deer is currently undocumented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To anatomically characterize spinal cord segments and their vertebral associations in Korean water deer and Siberian roe deer.
• To compare these findings with other known species.
• To elucidate the factors influencing the spinal cord-vertebral column positional relationship.

Main Methods:

• Morphometric analysis of spinal cords and vertebrae.
• Detailed measurement of spinal cord segments and vertebral parameters.
• Comparative analysis with existing literature.

Main Results:

• The cervical enlargement spanned C6-T1 and the lumbar enlargement L4-S1, with decreased spinal segment length in these regions.
• Observed transitions in spinal segment orientation relative to vertebral segments around enlargements.
• Noted changes in dorsal rootlet shape from acute to obtuse trapezoidal forms.

Conclusions:

• Reduced growth rates at spinal cord enlargements are proposed as the determinant of the spinal cord-vertebral column positional relationship.
• This study provides the first anatomical description of the spinal cord in these two deer species, advancing knowledge of Cervidae spinal cord structure.
• Findings offer insights into the segmental positional relationship between the spinal cord and vertebral column, supporting further morphological and embryological research.